Special Education RISE Co-Teacher - IDEA Henry Academy (Immediate Opening)

IDEA Public Schools•Midland, TX

About The Position

The Special Education RISE Co-Teacher supports students with significant cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities in IDEA RISE classrooms. RISE (Reaching Independence through Support and Education) uses a functional curriculum focused on daily living and vocational skills to help students transition successfully to adult life in the community. Instruction includes practical academics, communication, community, domestic, leisure and recreation, and vocational skills. Classrooms emphasize communication, independence, skill development in natural settings, and participation in general education activities with typical peers. The role supports K–5 Academy or grades 6–12 College Prep classrooms, often with lower student-to-teacher ratios (approximately 1:3). Co-Teachers assist with students’ educational and social development, implementation of Individual Education Plans, classroom participation, behavior and social skills, and daily living needs. The position works under the direction of the facilitator and classroom teachers and may involve accompanying students on school buses before or after school at some campuses.

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 multitude 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.
IDEA Co-Teachers with a bachelor’s degree are eligible to enroll in the IDEA 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 in implementing students’ Individual Education Plans and monitor their progress.
Provide support to individual students inside and outside the classroom so they can fully participate 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 when needed at some campuses.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits plan covering the majority of the employee premium for the base medical plan and subsidizing the majority of 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 toward a qualifying degree program, up to $5,250 per year, subject to manager discretion and budget availability.
Employer-paid mental and behavioral health benefits, including five face-to-face counseling sessions within a year, unlimited 24/7 telephonic counseling, and other work-life services.
Dental and vision plans.
Disability insurance.
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.