Special Education Life Skills Teacher

Pewitt Consolidated Independent School District•Omaha, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Provide functional, individualized instruction to elementary students with significant disabilities in a self-contained classroom. Emphasize foundational academic skills, communication, social development, and daily living skills to support student growth and independence. Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) while fostering a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment that promotes independence and student success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
Valid Texas teaching certificate with required Special Education endorsements
Knowledge of functional curriculum and TEKS for Grades 1–5, including prerequisite and alternate standards (STAAR Alternate 2)
Strong understanding of foundational academic instruction (reading, writing, and mathematics) for students with significant disabilities
Ability to design and implement individualized, functional, and differentiated instruction
Skills in behavior management, including positive behavior supports and crisis intervention
Experience with assistive technology and adaptive equipment
Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
Student teaching, internship, or experience working with elementary students, preferably in special education

Responsibilities

Provide direct, individualized, and small-group instruction in a self-contained classroom
Develop and implement a functional curriculum addressing foundational academics, communication, social skills, and daily living skills
Deliver explicit instruction in core academic areas, including: Early literacy (phonics, comprehension, vocabulary), Writing (emergent and structured writing skills), Mathematics (number sense, basic operations, problem-solving)
Design lessons aligned to grade-level TEKS while adapting content to meet individual student needs
Incorporate hands-on, multi-sensory, and research-based instructional strategies
Utilize assistive technology, visual supports, task analysis, and structured teaching strategies
Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion opportunities when appropriate
Participate in ARD/IEP meetings and instructional planning
Serve as case manager for assigned students receiving special education services
Develop and implement compliant IEPs with measurable academic and functional goals
Monitor and document progress toward IEP goals
Ensure compliance with all timelines, documentation, and legal requirements
Assess student progress using appropriate formal and informal tools
Provide instruction in communication skills, including expressive and receptive language
Teach social skills such as peer interaction, turn-taking, and appropriate classroom behavior
Support development of independence through daily routines and structured activities
Reinforce positive behavior and self-regulation skills
Create a structured, safe, and supportive classroom environment tailored to individual needs
Establish consistent routines and implement positive behavior intervention strategies
Manage student behavior in accordance with IEPs and behavior intervention plans
Supervise and direct paraprofessionals in implementing instruction and student support
Ensure student safety in all settings, including classroom and school environments
Maintain ongoing communication with families regarding student progress and academic development
Collaborate with general education staff, therapists, and support personnel
Participate in professional development related to special education and elementary instruction
Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with all special education requirements
Supervise and direct paraprofessionals and classroom support staff