Building Strong Foundations and Empowering Paraprofessionals: BST and Antecedent Interventions for Reducing Challenging Behavior

Paraprofessionals often receive limited behavior training. This session shares a practical coaching process using Behavioral Skills Training to teach antecedent strategies. Led by in-district BCBAs and specialists, the approach includes modeling, feedback, and classroom tools—supported by district data showing improved use of proactive strategies.Participants will be able to: 1. Describe the components of Behavioral Skills Training (BST)—including instruction, modeling, rehearsal, and feedback—and explain how this framework can be effectively applied to train paraprofessionals in implementing evidence-based behavioral strategies with fidelity. 2. Identify and apply practical coaching tools and supports that engage paraprofessionals in using proactive behavior strategies. 3. Analyze real-world examples of antecedent interventions (e.g., offering choice, pre-correction, using visuals, and modifying the environment) delivered through BST and describe how these strategies contributed to reductions in challenging behavior and improvements in student engagement within paraprofessional-supported classrooms.