Special Education RISE Co-Teacher - IDEA Bluff Springs College Prep (Immediate Opening)

IDEA Public Schools•Austin, TX

8d•$17 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

The Special Education RISE Co-Teacher supports students with significant cognitive and/or pervasive developmental disabilities in K–12 classrooms. RISE stands for Reaching Independence through Support and Education. The program uses a functional curriculum focused on practical academics, communication, community, domestic, 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, skill development in natural settings, and participation in activities with typical peers. Co-Teachers support the Special Education RISE classroom in either the Academy (K–5) or College Prep (6–12), working with students in lower student-to-teacher ratios, often 1:3. The position provides experience in special education and may suit someone with at least 48 college hours who is interested in advancing an education career. Co-Teachers with a bachelor’s degree are eligible to enroll in IDEA’s Special Education Certification Program, an alternative certification program facilitated by South Texas Transition to Teaching, with the goal of earning special education certification and becoming a special education teacher at IDEA. Compensation is an hourly rate ranging from $16.61 for employees with zero years of experience to $23.98; hourly co-teacher earnings are paid over 12 months. The role is with IDEA Public Schools, a network of tuition-free Pre-K–12 public charter schools. The specific opening is at IDEA Bluff Springs College Prep.

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.
Commitment to IDEA’s mission and values, including accountability, urgency, responsiveness to feedback, collaboration, and professional conduct.

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).

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 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 daily living activities, which may include feeding, lifting, and toileting in the Life Skills Unit.
At some campuses, ride the school bus with students before or after school as needed.

Benefits

Base medical plan with the majority of the employee premium covered; costs for a spouse/domestic partner and children are also subsidized.
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, capped at $5,250 per year and 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 insurance.
Life insurance.
Parenting benefits.
Flexible spending account options.
Generous vacation time.
Referral bonuses.
Professional development.
403(b) plan.
Relocation allowance may be offered to defray moving costs, if applicable.