Life Skills Teacher - Decatur High School

TITLE:
Life Skills Teachers

REPORTS TO:
Building Principal

EMPLOYMENT STATUS:
Full-Time

LOCATION:
Decatur Central High School

The Life Skills Teacher provides specialized instruction and support to students with disabilities who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This role focuses on developing students’ academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and adaptive skills to promote independence and success in school and beyond. The teacher is committed to removing barriers to learning and creating an inclusive, supportive, and structured learning environment.

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education (required)
• Valid Indiana Teaching License in Special Education (required)
• Demonstrated ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues
• Commitment to continuous improvement and professional growth

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of special education practices and individualized instruction
• Ability to develop and implement behavioral intervention plans
• Skilled in observing and responding to student behavioral patterns
• Compassionate, patient, and student-centered approach
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities
• Proficiency in integrating technology into daily instruction
• Knowledge of equitable instructional practices and cross-curricular literacy
• Experience working with students with significant cognitive and adaptive needs
• Expertise in life skills instruction and functional curriculum development
• Familiarity with assistive technology and augmentative communication tools

• Develop and implement initial and annual IEPs for students on caseload
• Deliver individualized, standards-based instruction aligned to IEP goals
• Design and facilitate engaging lessons that meet diverse learning needs
• Provide support across academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and adaptive domains
• Use evidence-based instructional strategies, including visuals and structured supports
• Implement effective transition strategies between activities and environments
• Create and adapt instructional materials, assessments, and assignments
• Plan and implement learning experiences beyond the IEP when appropriate

• Monitor student progress toward IEP goals using data-driven practices
  
  Maintain accurate documentation and data tracking systems
• Prepare and distribute progress reports, grade reports, and semester reports
• Ensure compliance with Indiana Article 7 and all special education regulations
• Plan, prepare for, and participate in case conference meetings

• Establish and maintain a safe, structured, and inclusive classroom environment
• Supervise students to ensure safety and engagement in learning
• Organize classroom supplies, resources, and equipment
• Maintain a clean and orderly classroom

• Collaborate with general education teachers, administrators, and support staff
• Build and maintain positive relationships with students, families, and stakeholders
• Communicate regularly with parents/guardians regarding student progress
• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team to support student success

• Demonstrate professionalism through attendance, punctuality, and ethical conduct
• Engage in continuous professional growth and collaborative learning
• Utilize technology effectively to enhance instruction and student engagement
• Perform additional duties as assigned