What are the responsibilities and job description for the Life Skills Instructor position at Berkshire Hills Music Academy?
Empower Independence Through Education
Berkshire Hills Music Academy (BHMA) is a post-secondary program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who share a passion for music. We believe in the power of education, creativity, and community to help individuals reach their fullest potential—both on stage and in life.
We are seeking a dedicated and creative educator to join our team as a Life Skills Instructor. This is an incredible opportunity for someone with a background in teaching or special education who wants to make a lasting impact in a supportive, mission-driven environment.
What You’ll Do
The Life Skills Instructor plays a key role in helping participants gain the skills needed for independent living. Working closely with the Director of Life Skills, you will design, teach, and adapt engaging classes that empower participants to develop confidence and autonomy in everyday life.
Key responsibilities include:
•Teach and adapt life skills courses such as money management, cooking, health, community safety, and social living.
•Manage BHMA’s Money Management Program, helping participants learn real-world budgeting, saving, shopping, and banking skills.
oSupport participants in setting up and maintaining bank accounts.
oCollaborate with families, caregivers, and internal departments to track spending and progress.
oUse visual systems, digital tools, and tiered supports to promote independence.
oLead weekly small-group classes with hands-on community experiences such as grocery shopping, restaurant budgeting, and local banking trips.
•Create individualized learning plans tailored to each participants strengths and goals.
•Collaborate across departments to reinforce life skills learning in residential and vocational settings.
•Document student progress and contribute to Individual Support Plan goals.
•Model professionalism, creativity, and compassion in a team-based environment.
Why Join BHMA?
•Work in a creative and mission-driven community where music and education intersect to change lives.
•Collaborate with passionate educators, clinicians, and artists.
•Experience the reward of teaching skills that truly matter—from grocery shopping to goal setting.
•Enjoy a supportive and inclusive environment that values innovation, compassion, and teamwork.
About Berkshire Hills Music Academy
Located in South Hadley, MA, Berkshire Hills Music Academy (BHMA) is a private, post-secondary program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through music, education, and community experiences, we help students build independence, social skills, and vocational readiness.
Salary : $50,000 - $53,000