PRIMARY PURPOSE

Provide special education services in a self-contained Life Skills classroom. Design and deliver individualized instruction to students with significant cognitive and developmental disabilities, focusing on academic skills, communication, behavior, and functional life skills. Maintain compliance with ARD/IEP procedures and collaborate with parents, paraprofessionals, and related service staff.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Certification:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university

Valid Texas teaching certificate in Special Education (EC-12) or ability to obtain

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of special education laws, ARD process, and IEP implementation

Experience with or knowledge of Life Skills programs

Ability to manage student behavior and implement behavior intervention plans

Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Ability to work collaboratively with paraprofessionals and related service providers

CPI or similar crisis intervention training (preferred)

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Instructional Support

1. Develop and implement individualized lesson plans based on IEP goals and TEKS
2. Provide academic, social, communication, and life skills instruction using research-based practices
3. Modify curriculum and use assistive technology/adaptive equipment as needed
4. Collect data on student progress and report regularly to ARD committees
5. Supervise and support paraprofessionals in daily classroom instruction and routines

Student Management

5. Implement behavior intervention strategies and support emotional regulation
6. Create a structured, safe, and supportive classroom environment
7. Maintain confidentiality of student information and records
8. Collaborate with general education teachers, administrators, and service providers

Other

9. Attend ARD meetings, staff development, and special education trainings
10. Participate in campus/district events and professional learning communities
11. Follow all district safety protocols and emergency procedures

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervise classroom paraprofessionals and aides assigned to the Life Skills classroom

MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS/ ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard office and instructional equipment, including computer, copier, adaptive technology, and mobility aids
Posture: Frequent standing and walking; some bending, kneeling, and lifting
Motion: Frequent movement; repetitive hand motions; regular interaction with students requiring physical prompts or assistance
Lifting: Regular light to moderate lifting (15–45 pounds)
Environment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, or inclement weather); occasional exposure to bodily fluids and behavior challenges
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work with frequent interruptions; manage diverse and sometimes intensive student needs

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.