Special Education Life Skills Teacher

Pewitt Consolidated Independent School District•Omaha, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Provide students with significant disabilities at the high school level with functional, individualized instruction in a self-contained classroom. Emphasize transition services, vocational training, and independent living skills to prepare students for postsecondary success in employment, community participation, and adult living. Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) while fostering a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment that promotes independence and self-determination.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
Valid Texas teaching certificate with required Special Education endorsements
Knowledge of functional curriculum and high school TEKS, including prerequisite and alternate standards (STAAR Alternate 2)
Strong understanding of transition planning requirements
Knowledge of vocational training strategies and work-based learning models
Ability to design and implement individualized, functional, and community-based 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 students with significant disabilities

Responsibilities

Provide direct, individualized, and small-group instruction in a self-contained classroom
Develop and implement functional curriculum focused on daily living skills, functional academics, social skills, and communication
Embed vocational and employability skills into daily instruction (e.g., task completion, time management, workplace behavior)
Design lessons aligned to real-world applications, including money management, budgeting, and consumer skills
Incorporate community-based instruction (CBI) to generalize skills across school and community environments
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 a strong emphasis on measurable postsecondary goals (education, employment, independent living)
Collaborate with vocational programs, workforce agencies, and community partners (e.g., job sites, training programs)
Support completion of graduation requirements, including alternative pathways when applicable
Ensure all compliance timelines and documentation requirements are met
Assess student progress using formal and informal tools appropriate for functional and vocational instruction
Monitor and document progress toward IEP and transition goals
Provide explicit instruction in job readiness skills, including following directions, workplace communication, and problem-solving
Teach independent living skills such as personal care, transportation awareness, household tasks, and self-advocacy
Support development of social skills necessary for workplace and community success
Prepare students for adult services and connect families with outside agencies when appropriate
Create a structured, safe, and supportive classroom environment tailored to individual needs
Establish consistent routines and implement positive behavior intervention strategies
Manage student behavior, including crisis intervention, in accordance with IEPs and behavior plans
Supervise and direct paraprofessionals or aides in implementing instruction, vocational tasks, and community activities
Ensure student safety in classroom, community, and vocational settings, including mobility and medical needs
Maintain open, supportive communication with families and caregivers regarding student progress and transition planning
Collaborate with general education staff, therapists, transition specialists, and vocational coordinators
Participate in professional development and ongoing training related to transition and life skills instruction
Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with all special education requirements
Direct and oversee instructional aides and classroom support staff
Assist students with mobility, personal care, and daily living needs (e.g., toileting, feeding, hygiene)
Ability to supervise students in community and job-site environments
Maintain emotional control and patience in a structured, high-support environment