Certified Life Skills Teacher - Grades 3-5

Caminonuevo; Coldspring (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A specialized educational institution in Coldspring, Texas, seeks a dedicated special education teacher to provide tailored instruction for students with cognitive and adaptive needs. Responsibilities include developing IEPs, teaching essential life skills, and implementing behavior intervention plans. The role demands collaboration with staff and families while ensuring student safety and compliance with regulations. Candidates should possess a degree in special education and demonstrate effective communication and management skills.

Qualifications

• Ability to implement IEPs and adapt curricula.
• Strong skills in communication and behavior management.
• Experience in teaching life skills and supporting independence.

Responsibilities

• Develop individual education programs (IEPs) for students.
• Teach daily living skills and positive behavior supports.
• Supervise teacher aides and maintain communication with families.

Skills

Instructional Strategies

Behavior Management

Communication Skills

Life Skills Development

Education

Degree in Special Education

Tools

Personal computer

AAC devices

Job description

Provide specialized instruction and support for students with significant cognitive and/or adaptive needs. Develop and implement individualized programs that promote independence, functional academics, communication, and life skills necessary for daily living.

Instructional Strategies Instruction & IEP Implementation

1. Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) aligned to student needs.
2. Deliver instruction in functional academics (reading, math), communication, social skills, and daily living skills.
3. Modify and adapt general education curriculum to ensure accessibility. Utilize research‑based strategies (e.g., task analysis, TEACCH, visual supports).
4. Plan and supervise assignments for teacher aide(s) and volunteer(s).

Life Skills Development

1. Teach essential daily living skills such as hygiene, organization, and self‑care. Support development of communication skills (verbal, AAC devices, visual systems).
2. Promote independence in school routines and transitions.

Behavior & Classroom Management

1. Implement Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) and use positive behavior supports.
2. Create a structured, predictable classroom environment.
3. Support students in developing self‑regulation and coping skills.

Assessment & Progress Monitoring

1. Collect and analyze data to monitor progress toward IEP goals.
2. Maintain compliance with documentation and timelines.
3. Participate in ARD/IEP meetings and collaborate on student goals.

Collaboration & Communication

1. Work closely with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, and specialists.
2. Provide guidance and training to paraprofessional staff.
3. Maintain consistent communication with families regarding student progress.

Personal Care & Safety

1. Assist students with personal care needs (feeding, toileting, mobility) as required.
2. Ensure student safety in all settings (classroom, cafeteria, playground, community‑based instruction).

Other

1. Keep informed of and comply with federal, state, District, and school regulations and policies for special education teachers.
2. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required.
3. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Supervise assigned teacher aide(s).

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment.

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting.

Motion: Frequent walking. Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist non-ambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive and other classroom equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours.

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards.

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress.

Regular attendance in accordance with District Policy is required and expected.

The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.