Primary Purpose
Assist the special education teacher in the preparation and management of a Life Skills classroom. Provide instructional and physical support to students with significant cognitive and developmental disabilities. Help maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment while promoting student independence in academic, social, and functional life skills.  Assist in other instructional settings as needed.

Qualifications

Education/Certification

• High school diploma or GED
• Valid Texas educational aide certificate or willingness to obtain

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Patience and interest in working with students with disabilities
• Ability to follow teacher directions and implement instructional strategies
• Knowledge of basic classroom procedures and child development
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as part of a team

Preferred

• Experience working in a Life Skills or special education classroom
• Training in behavior intervention or CPI (or willingness to complete training)

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Instructional Support

1. Assist in implementing IEP goals through daily instructional activities
2. Support students in academic tasks, communication practice, and life skills routines
3. Prepare materials and adapt resources as directed by the teacher
4. Monitor student progress and behavior; collect and document data as needed
5. Provide support with assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and mobility aids

Student Management

6. Support students with physical, behavioral, and emotional needs
7. Follow behavior intervention plans and assist with emotional regulation strategies
8. Supervise students during classroom transitions, lunch, restroom breaks, and other daily routines
9. Maintain confidentiality of student records and information

Other

10. Attend relevant trainings and staff meetings as required
11. Participate in safety drills, ARD meetings (if requested), and school functions
12. Follow all campus and district procedures, including emergency and safety protocols

Supervisory Responsibilities

None.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard instructional and office equipment, mobility aids, adaptive devices
Posture: Frequent standing and walking; some bending, kneeling, and lifting
Motion: Regular movement; frequent physical assistance or prompts to students
Lifting: Regular light to moderate lifting (15–45 pounds)
Environment: Work inside and outside; exposure to behavior challenges, bodily fluids, and varying weather conditions
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; work with frequent interruptions and challenging 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.