How to Build Strong Relationships with Schools as a BCBA
Heyyy, BCBA Ruby here!
One of the most crucial aspects of being a BCBA is the ability to collaborate effectively with schools and other professionals to create a supportive, successful learning environment for children. Whether you’re providing support to students with autism or collaborating on an IEP, building strong relationships with schools is key to achieving positive outcomes for your clients.
But how do you build these relationships? It’s not just about the work you do with the child—it’s about fostering trust, clear communication, and partnership with the school staff. Here are some tips to help you build those relationships and become a valuable member of the educational team.
1. Establish Open and Ongoing Communication
The foundation of any strong relationship is communication, and this is especially true when working with schools. As a BCBA, you’re often working with teachers, special education coordinators, and other school staff members who might not have the same level of understanding of behavior analysis. It’s important to:
Be clear: Use simple, straightforward language when discussing behavior plans, goals, and interventions. Avoid jargon that might be confusing.
Be proactive: Reach out to teachers and staff regularly to provide updates on your client’s progress and to discuss any changes in the plan.
Listen actively: Take the time to hear the concerns and feedback of the school staff. They’re the ones who interact with the student on a daily basis and can offer valuable insights.
2. Collaborate on IEP Goals
When it comes to students with disabilities, IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) are a critical part of the school process. As a BCBA, you play an essential role in supporting the development of these goals.
Be involved in the IEP process: Make sure you’re part of the meetings where the child’s goals and interventions are being discussed. If you’re not invited to the table, request to be involved.
Ensure alignment: Your behavioral goals and strategies should align with the overall educational goals. Collaborate with teachers and other professionals to ensure consistency across environments.
Provide ongoing support: After the IEP is established, continue to work closely with school staff to monitor progress and adjust interventions as needed.
3. Offer Training and Support to Staff
Not all teachers and staff members are familiar with ABA techniques, and part of your role as a BCBA is to help bridge that gap. Providing training and support to school staff can help them feel more confident in implementing behavior interventions and understanding the strategies you use.
Offer workshops or training sessions: Provide school staff with the tools they need to support your client effectively. This might include teaching them how to implement specific strategies or understand the principles of ABA.
Provide resources: Share articles, videos, or guides that explain ABA concepts in an accessible way.
Be available for questions: Let the staff know you’re there to answer any questions and offer support when they need it.
4. Build Trust and Respect
Building a solid relationship with school staff takes time, and trust is earned through consistent, respectful actions.
Respect their expertise: Teachers and other school staff are experts in education and child development. While your area of expertise is ABA, respect and acknowledge their role and knowledge in the educational setting.
Be approachable: Make yourself available for quick check-ins or conversations to show that you’re open to collaboration and feedback.
Be reliable: Follow through on commitments, whether it’s providing session notes, updating behavior plans, or attending meetings. Being dependable will help build trust over time.
5. Foster a Team Mentality
Working together as a cohesive team is vital to supporting the student’s growth and development. As a BCBA, you should always emphasize the importance of teamwork and demonstrate a collaborative attitude.
Focus on the shared goal: Remind everyone that the ultimate goal is the success and well-being of the student. Keeping this in mind will help foster unity among the team.
Celebrate successes together: When progress is made, celebrate as a team! Recognizing collective achievements helps strengthen relationships and keeps the team motivated.
6. Be Patient and Flexible
Building relationships with schools takes time, especially when you’re introducing new strategies or interventions. Be patient with the process and flexible with your approach.
Adapt to the school’s culture: Each school has its own unique culture and dynamics. Be sensitive to the needs of the school and adapt your strategies accordingly.
Understand challenges: Schools face various challenges, from limited resources to high-stress environments. Be understanding when things don’t go as planned and work together to find solutions.
Final Thoughts
Building strong relationships with schools is essential for creating the most supportive and effective environment for the students you work with. As a BCBA, your role isn’t just about implementing interventions—it’s about collaborating, communicating, and fostering positive working relationships with the school team. By being proactive, offering support, and building trust, you’ll help create a solid foundation for success.
Let’s continue to work together and make a difference in the lives of the children we serve!
