Co-Teacher - IDEA Converse Academy (Immediate Opening)

IDEA Public Schools•Converse, TX

18h

About The Position

The Special Education Co-Teacher supports IDEA Public Schools’ RISE (Reaching Independence through Support and Education) classrooms, working with students with significant cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities. These K–12 classrooms use a functional curriculum to develop daily living and vocational skills and prepare students for successful transitions to adult life in the community. Instruction includes practical academics, communication, community, domestic, leisure and recreation, and vocational skills. Classrooms emphasize communication, independence, skills practice in natural settings, and participation in general education activities with typical peers. Co-Teachers support students’ academic needs in Academy (K–5) or College Prep (6–12) classrooms, which often have student-to-teacher ratios of 1:3. The role is grant-funded by Title I Part A, is limited to activities allowable under that grant, and has no guarantee of ongoing employment; funding may be extended. The position is intended for someone seeking experience in special education teaching and advancement in an education career. Compensation is hourly, from $16.61 for candidates with no experience to $28.98; earnings are paid over a 12-month period. IDEA offers a benefits package that includes a base medical plan, paid family leave for eligible staff, tuition reimbursement subject to requirements and availability, counseling and work-life services, dental and vision plans, disability and life insurance, parenting benefits, flexible spending account options, vacation time, referral bonuses, professional development, and a 403(b) plan. A relocation allowance may be offered if applicable.

Requirements

At least 48 college hours.
Ability to physically assist students with special needs as required, including positioning, lifting, transferring, and restraining.
Ability to instruct students and manage student behavior.
Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to adjust and adapt to a variety of situations in the school environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.
Experience working with children with cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities.
Willingness to pursue a Special Education teaching certification.
For Co-Teachers with a bachelor’s degree, eligibility to enroll in IDEA’s Special Education Certification Program (ISECP), an alternative certification program facilitated by South Texas Transition to Teaching (SOTEX).

Responsibilities

Assist in students’ educational and social development under the direction and guidance of the facilitator and classroom teachers.
Assist with implementing students’ Individual Education Plans and monitor their progress.
Support individual students inside and outside the classroom so they can participate fully in activities.
Work with other professionals, including speech therapists, social workers, and occupational and physical therapists.
Assist classroom teachers with maintaining student records.
Support students with emotional or behavioral concerns and help them develop appropriate social skills.
Assist with activities of daily living, which may include feeding, lifting, and toileting in the Life Skills Unit.
Accompany students on school buses before or after school at campuses where this is needed.

Benefits

Medical plan, with the employer covering the majority of the employee premium and subsidizing most costs for a spouse/domestic partner and children.
Eligible staff may receive up to 8 weeks of paid family leave for the birth or adoption of a child, based on tenure and caregiver designation.
Tuition reimbursement of up to 50% of tuition paid for a qualifying degree program, up to $5,250 per year, subject to manager discretion and budget availability.
Five face-to-face counseling sessions per year, unlimited 24/7 telephonic counseling, and other work-life services at no cost.
Dental and vision plans.
Disability and life insurance.
Parenting benefits.
Flexible spending account options.
Generous vacation time.
Referral bonuses.
Professional development.
403(b) plan.
Relocation allowance may be offered if applicable.