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

IDEA Public Schools•Midland, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education RISE Co-Teacher supports students with significant cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities in IDEA Academy (K–5) or College Prep (6–12) classrooms. RISE means Reaching Independence through Support and Education. These classrooms use a functional curriculum focused on practical academics, communication, community participation, domestic skills, leisure and recreation, and vocational skills to help students develop daily living skills and transition successfully to adult life in the community. Instruction takes place in a general education school building and emphasizes communication, independence, applying skills in natural settings, and participating in general education activities with typical peers. Co-Teachers work with students in lower student-teacher ratios, often 1:3. This role is suitable for candidates seeking experience in special education teaching, including candidates with at least 48 college hours who want to advance their education careers. The Co-Teacher assists with instruction and student development under the direction of classroom teachers and the facilitator, supports Individual Education Plans, monitors student progress, and helps students participate in classroom and other activities. The role may involve physical assistance with students and support with daily living needs. Co-Teachers with a bachelor’s degree may be eligible to enroll in IDEA’s Special Education Certification Program, an alternative certification program facilitated by South Texas Transition to Teaching.

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

Responsibilities

Assist in the educational and social development of students under the direction and guidance of the facilitator and classroom teachers.
Assist in implementing students’ Individual Education Plans and monitor their progress.
Support individual students inside and outside the classroom so they can fully participate in activities.
Work with professionals such as 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 daily living activities in the Life Skills Unit, which may include feeding, lifting, and toileting.
Accompany students on school buses before or after school when needed at some campuses.

Benefits

Hourly compensation ranging from $17.73 for 0 years of experience to $25.59; earnings are paid over a 12-month period.
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 for a qualifying degree program, up to $5,250 per year, subject to manager discretion and budget availability.
Employer-paid mental and behavioral health services, including five face-to-face counseling sessions per year, unlimited 24/7 telephonic counseling, and other work-life services.
Dental and vision plans.
Disability and life insurance.
Parenting benefits.
Flexible spending account options.
Vacation time.
Referral bonuses.
Professional development.
403(b) plan.
Relocation allowance may be offered to defray moving costs, if applicable.