Special Education - Life Skills Teacher

Special Education: PAYGRADE Teacher Salary Life Skills Teacher ScaleReports To: PrincipalDepartment/School: Assigned CampusWork Days: 10 MonthsWage/Hour Status: ExemptFund Source: Special Ed. LocalPrimary PurposeProvide students in Special Education with appropriate learning activities and experiences designed to fulfill their potential for intellectual, emotional, physical, and social growth. Modify curricula and prepare lessons and other instructional materials according to ability levels. Work in self-contained, team, departmental, or itinerant capacity as assigned.QualificationsMinimum Education/CertificationBachelor's Degree from an accredited university Valid teaching certificate, with required special education endorsements for assignments and a Generalist certificationSpecial Knowledge/SkillsKnowledge of special needs of students in assigned area Knowledge of Admission, Review, and Dismissal Committee Process and Standard-Based IEP goal-setting process and implementation General knowledge of TEKS, alternate curriculum, and instruction Maintain CPI CertificationMinimum ExperienceAt least one year of student teaching or an approved internshipMajor Responsibilities and DutiesInstructional Management1. Collaborate with students, parents, and other members of the staff to develop Individual Education Plans (IEP) through the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee process for each student assigned.2. Implement an instructional, therapeutic, or skill development program for assigned students and show written evidence of preparation as required.3. Plan and use appropriate instructional/learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect accommodations/modifications for the individual needs of students assigned.4. Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to modify regular curricula as needed and assist students included in regular classes with assignments.5. Participate in ARD Committee meetings on a regular basis.6. Conduct an assessment of student learning styles and use results for instructional activities.7. Present the subject matter according to guidelines established by the IEP.8. Employ a variety of instructional techniques and media consistent with the needs and capabilities of each student assigned.9. Plan and supervise purposeful assignments for teacher paraprofessional(s) and/or volunteer(s).10. Use technologies in the teaching/learning process.11. Provide vocational experiences- as appropriateSchool/Growth and Development12. Consistently assess student achievement through formal and informal testing.13. Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, and/or feeding of students as stated in IEP.Classroom Management and Organization16. Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate to the physical, social, and emotional development of students.17. Manage student behavior and administer discipline including crisis intervention and physical restraint of students according to IEP.18. Consult with regular classroom teachers regarding the management of student behavior according to IEP.19. Consult with District and outside resource personnel regarding the education, social, medical, and personal needs of students.20. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.21. Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.22. Establish and maintain open lines of communication with students and their parents on a consistent basis.23. Maintain a professional relationship with all colleagues, students, parents, and community members.24. Use acceptable communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.Professional Growth and Development Improvement25. Participate in the District staff development program.26. Demonstrate interest and initiative in professional improvement.27. Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.Policy Implementation28. Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, and local regulations and policies for special education teachers.29. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents as required.30. Assist in providing staff support and development for teachers and paraprofessionals about teaching and managing the behavior of students with Low Incidence Disabilities.31. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.32. Attend and participate in monthly planning meetings for Life Skills Teachers.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesSupervises assigned paraprofessional(s).Working ConditionsMental DemandsAbility to communicate (verbal and written); ability to instruct; maintain emotional control under stress.Physical Demands/Environmental FactorsAny special requirements needed for working with assigned students. For example, requirements to provide personal care for students daily living needs, to lift and position students; control behavior through physical restraint; assist nonambulatory students; and biological exposure to bacteria and communicable diseases.