Creating Lasting School Partnerships: Key Strategies for Successful ABA Consulting

Partnering with an outside vendor, especially for ABA services, can understandably create apprehension for school administrators. Many have encountered challenges in the past, from inconsistent staffing to a lack of transparency and adherence to school protocols. But in over 15 years of working with school districts at PBS Corp., we’ve learned a few essential strategies to foster successful, long-lasting partnerships.

Embrace Your Role on the Team

Effective ABA school consulting means recognizing that the provider is an integral extension of the school’s existing team, rather than an outside entity with its own agenda. The consultant’s role should integrate seamlessly into the school-based team already established for each student. Unlike in-home or clinical settings, the school environment requires a collaborative approach where the consultant works hand-in-hand with educators and staff to create a unified plan for the student’s success. For example, in a school setting, a behavior analyst might work closely with the classroom teacher, special education coordinator, and speech therapist to ensure that all behavioral strategies align with the student’s academic and social goals. Together, they create a comprehensive plan that addresses not only the student's behavior but also supports their learning and overall development. This collaborative approach ensures that every team member is on the same page, working toward the same objectives for the student’s success.

Establish Clear and Consistent Communication Channels

Open, structured communication is critical to building trust with any ABA consultant. School administrators should always be the primary point of contact to ensure there’s clear documentation of discussions and decisions. Additionally, ABA contractors should direct parents to communicate with the school district to maintain consistency and avoid misunderstandings. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures that all parties are on the same page.?

Fostering Collaborate with the Entire Treatment Team

School-based ABA consultants often interact with a diverse range of professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and other behavior specialists. Rather than assuming an expert role, ABA consultants should seek to contribute to a student’s progress by working alongside other clinicians. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of the interventions but also strengthens the overall team dynamic, fostering better buy-in from staff and families alike.?

At PBS Corp., we prioritize these best practices to create positive and effective partnerships through our school-based ABA services. We value the strong relationships we’ve built with school districts and are committed to maintaining these collaborative efforts. If you’re interested in learning more about how PBS Corp. can support your school, feel free to complete a short survey at https://www.teampbs.com/SchoolServices.aspx