Pembina Hills School Division invites applications for the position of a Regulation (Behaviour) Specialist or Psychologist to provide intensive intervention to support the inclusion of students with complex disabilities.
The successful candidate will primarily be focused on developing and supporting the implementation of Safety and Regulation Support Plans grounded in trauma-sensitive and neurodiversity affirming approaches, with the goal of students being able to safely access learning and social opportunities. Ideal candidates will understand the role of interoception, trauma, and attachment theory in shaping children’s behavior and should be able to explain how they conceptualize and support students and teachers beyond simply using rewards and punishments.
This position will be based out of Westlock and commences August 27, 2026. Hours of work will be 5 days/week at 7.5 hours/day following the Pembina Hills School Division calendar.
The Division
Pembina Hills School Division provides education to approximately 3500 students in 15 community schools in north-central Alberta. PHSD also provides education to over 10,000 students from within and beyond our borders, through our online school, Vista Virtual School. For more information on our remarkable Division, please visit our website at
Required Qualifications
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Degree in education, psychology, or a related field
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Graduate degree in education, psychology, or a related field preferred
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Formal training and experience in being able to blend behavioural principles into naturalistic classrooms settings and routines
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Experience working with children with regulation and learning challenges
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Experience working with children with disabilities (autism, trauma disorders, FASD)
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Experience working with multidisciplinary teams
Preferences
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Ability or interest in conducting psycho-educational assessments
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Training in trauma-sensitive practices, counselling, and/or assessment
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Teaching or school-related experience
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Knowledge of Stuart Shanker's Self-Regulation model, Ross Greene’s Collaborative Problem-Solving, Universal Design for Learning, Interoception, and inclusive education practices
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Training in crisis de-escalation techniques (SIVA, NVCI, etc)
- Experience supporting students who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
The Benefits
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Excellent benefit package through the Alberta School Employee Benefit Plan which includes
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Extended Health Care
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Dental Care
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Vision Care
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Extended Disability Benefit
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Pension Plan through Local Authorities Pension Plan
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Health & Wellness Spending Account
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14 General and Board declared holidays
For further information, please contact Kendra Seatter, Director of Student Services at 780-307-0502
This competition closes when a suitable candidate is found.
There are inherent risks in the work employees do throughout Pembina Hills School Division (PHSD). All staff are to be prepared to satisfactorily manage the inherent risks encountered in their work. PHSD staff are responsible for advising their Supervisors of unknown risks encountered relating directly to their work. Staff are expected to cooperate in ensuring workplace health and safety in a caring and respectful educational setting.
Apply at:
If you require assistance with the application process, please call Simplication @ 1-877-900-5627
PLEASE NOTE:
- Your resume should include a list of references with permission for Pembina Hills School Division to contact any or all references.
- Original Criminal Record Check including Vulnerable Sector (dated within one year) must be provided prior to employment.
- Original Intervention Record Check (dated within one year) – issued by Child & Family Services Authority must be provided prior to employment.
- Verification of Education and relative experience is required.
We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those shortlisted will be contacted.
