Middle School: Teacher Special Education Succeeding in Academic and Independent Living Skills

Job Overview

The Teacher Special Education SAILS Middle School will provide instruction in academic, behavior, communication, independent living, social, and personal care skills to students with disabilities using a variety of teaching techniques, materials and equipment. The Succeeding in Academic and Independent Living Skills (SAILS) program generally serves students with cognitive disabilities who require a curriculum focusing on academic instruction based on prerequisite skills aligned to grade level TEKS, communication/social skills, independent living skills, and job readiness/self‑determination skills.

Any teacher who will coach a UIL sport will also provide athletic services related to that athletic sport and the athletic program.

Service Delivery

• Conduct instructional and other professional activities consistent with the requirements of state and federal laws.
• Safeguard confidentiality with regard to students with disabilities.
• Work collaboratively with parents, students, and school/community personnel in the development of clear, measurable Individual Educational Plan (IEP) goals and objectives aligned with TEKS.
• Apply knowledge of human development and disabilities to plan and implement appropriate curriculum with accommodations, modifications, and adaptations.
• Document ongoing student progress, retain and maintain accurate records including support and service logs, regular data collection on IEP targets and behavior, and progress updates.
• Administer and analyze student assessment appropriately, including state and district testing and informal criterion‑referenced assessments.
• Develop present levels of academic achievement and functional performance (PLAAFP) and annual goals/objectives based on assessment results.
• Prepare, organize and implement lesson plans that are developmentally and age‑appropriate based on student IEPs, including behavior intervention plans and accommodations/modifications of materials and curriculum.
• Direct and oversee the activities of an educational setting paraprofessional, aide, volunteer, or peer tutor.
• Use appropriate adaptive equipment and assistive technology as documented in the ARD or recommended by related service providers to facilitate learning, communication, mobility and positioning.
• Execute behavioral strategies indicated in students' ARD documents (e.g., reinforcements, consequences, contingencies) and intervene using a continuum of behavior intervention strategies, up to and including restraint when a student is in danger of harming self or others.
• Prepare paperwork for and participate in Admission Review and Dismissal (ARD) meetings.
• Participate in appropriate campus/district professional development activities as required or assigned.
• Provide for basic needs of students who, because of their disability, cannot care for themselves, including personal care such as hygiene, toileting, cleaning, dressing, lifting, positioning, transitioning and feeding.

If the position is tied to coaching a UIL sport, the following essential duties are applicable to coaching:

• Perform coaching duties as assigned as well as other duties required for the smooth, efficient operation of a successful athletic program.
• Possess knowledge and adhere to UIL rules and regulations.
• Assist the Athletic Department with budget, schedules, and care/use of facilities.
• Communicate with the Athletic Department on a regular basis.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each of the above essential duties satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or abilities required unless otherwise stated as preferred. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Bachelor's degree in Education or related field.
• Valid Teaching Certification issued by Texas Education Agency appropriate to subject and grade level or demonstrate competency through the state's Texas Content Competency Worksheet (TCCW) or has received a statement of eligibility.
• Valid Special…