Therapeutic Support Staff - Pre-Kindergarten

Job Description

Job Description

The Therapeutic Support Staff (TSS) provides individualized behavioral, emotional, developmental, and social-emotional support to preschool-aged children (ages 3–5) within the classroom setting. Working collaboratively with teachers, families, administrators, and outside service providers, the TSS helps children successfully participate in daily classroom activities while promoting independence, positive behavior, and school readiness.

The Therapeutic Support Staff implements individualized support strategies, assists with behavior intervention plans, encourages positive peer interactions, and ensures children receive the support needed to thrive in an inclusive learning environment.

Child Support

• Provide one-on-one and small-group support to assigned Pre-K students.
• Assist children in developing social, emotional, behavioral, and self-regulation skills.
• Encourage independence while providing appropriate levels of assistance.
• Support children during classroom routines, transitions, meals, rest time, and outdoor play.
• Reinforce positive behaviors using developmentally appropriate guidance techniques.
• Implement individualized behavior support plans (BSPs), IEP goals, or other therapeutic recommendations as directed.
• Model appropriate social skills and conflict-resolution strategies.

Classroom Support

• Collaborate with classroom teachers to promote an inclusive learning environment.
• Assist with implementing developmentally appropriate classroom activities.
• Help maintain a safe, organized, and engaging classroom.
• Support active supervision of children at all times.
• Assist during classroom transitions and field trips.

Documentation & Communication

• Collect and document behavioral observations and progress data.
• Maintain accurate records of interventions and child progress.
• Communicate regularly with teachers, administrators, therapists, and families regarding student progress.
• Participate in team meetings, case conferences, and family meetings as requested.

Health & Safety

• Ensure children's safety through active supervision at all times.
• Follow all Bright Minds Bright Beginnings health and safety policies.
• Respond appropriately to emergencies and behavioral crises.
• Maintain confidentiality of all child and family information.

Professional Responsibilities

• Attend required staff meetings and professional development.
• Maintain current CPR/First Aid certification and required state clearances.
• Demonstrate professionalism, teamwork, and positive communication.
• Follow all DHS regulations, Keystone STARS standards, and program policies.

• High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Psychology, Human Services, Special Education, or a related field preferred.
• Experience working with preschool-aged children, particularly children with developmental, behavioral, or emotional needs, preferred.
• Knowledge of positive behavior support strategies and child development.
• Ability to remain calm and respond appropriately in challenging situations.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.