What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Ed Teacher - 18+ position at Dripping Springs ISD?
Job Title: Special Education Teacher - 18
Wage/Hour Status: Exempt
Reports to: Low Incidence Disability Coordinator / Director of Special Services
Pay Grade: DSISD Teacher Compensation Scale
Dept./School: Department of Special Services
Work Calendar: 187 Days
Date Revised: 05/21/2026
Provide transition-focused special education services and instruction for students ages 18 in a community-based transition program. Coordinate and supervise instruction in both campus and community settings and facilitate meaningful post-secondary outcomes through classroom and community-based instruction, vocational training, and real-world learning experiences.
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
• Valid Texas teaching certificate with required special education endorsement(s) for assignment
• Clear and valid Texas driver’s license
• Knowledge of transition services, vocational instruction, and community-based instruction practices
• Knowledge of the ARD Committee process and Individualized Education Program (IEP) development and implementation
• Knowledge of adaptive behavior, independent living instruction, and functional curriculum development
• Knowledge of behavior management and crisis intervention strategies
• Ability to supervise students in community and vocational settings
• Ability to coordinate transportation and community-based activities safely and effectively
• Strong organizational, communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills
• Student teaching, approved internship, or related experience
• Experience working with students and/or adults with disabilities in transition, vocational, or community-based settings preferred
1. Collaborate with students, parents, and staff to develop IEPs through the ARD Committee process, and participate in ARD Committee and transition planning meetings and activities, as required.
2. Implement instructional, vocational, therapeutic, and independent living skill programs in accordance with student IEPs.
3. Develop and adapt functional curriculum and instructional materials.
4. Plan and deliver instruction in classroom, campus, vocational, and community-based settings using evidence-based instructional strategies.
5. Provide instruction in employment readiness, self-advocacy, communication, social skills, community safety, recreation/leisure, daily living, and independent functioning.
6. Coordinate and supervise community-based instruction and vocational training opportunities, and assist in identifying and securing instructional materials and vocational resources.
7. Collaborate with district staff, families, employers, adult agencies, and community partners to support transition planning and services.
1. Conduct ongoing formal and informal assessments of student progress toward transition and IEP goals.
2. Monitor and document student performance in classroom, vocational, and community environments.
3. Support students in developing age-appropriate independence, self-determination, and workplace readiness skills.
4. Provide or supervise personal care, medical care, feeding, and mobility support as required by student IEPs.
5. Support student participation in community experiences, volunteer opportunities, and employment training activities.
6. Collaborate with related service providers, adult agencies, and outside professionals regarding student needs and transition supports.
1. Create and maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment across classroom and community settings.
2. Manage student behavior in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct, Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs), and IEP requirements.
3. Implement crisis intervention strategies, including physical restraint when appropriately trained to do so.
4. Coordinate schedules, transportation, community access, and vocational activities for students participating in off-campus instruction.
5. Transport students in district vehicles as assigned and in accordance with district transportation procedures and safety expectations.
6. Take necessary precautions to protect students, equipment, vehicles, and facilities.
7. Assign and oversee the work of instructional aides (job coaches).
8. Maintain inventory and organization of instructional, vocational, and adaptive equipment and materials.
1. Maintain open communication with parents, students, staff, employers, adult agencies, and community partners to support transition and vocational programming.
2. Establish and maintain positive professional relationships with students, families, coworkers, and community partners.
3. Participate in professional development related to transition services, community-based instruction, behavior supports, and special education practices.
4. Comply with federal, state, district, and campus policies and procedures.
5. Maintain accurate and timely reports, records, and other required documentation.
6. Attend meetings and serve on committees as assigned.
7. Follow district safety protocols, emergency procedures, and transportation guidelines.
Direct and monitor the work of instructional aides (job coaches).
Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, assistive technology, instructional and adaptive equipment, district vehicles, and community-based instructional resources
Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling, bending, pushing/pulling, and twisting
Motion: Frequent walking in varied environments
Lifting: May require heavy lifting (45 pounds or more), transferring and positioning students, and moving adaptive equipment
Environment: Work inside and outside; frequent travel between campus and community locations; exposure to varying weather conditions, biological hazards, and communicable diseases; may work prolonged or irregular hours
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress and in crisis situations; manage multiple priorities and student safety across varied settings.
This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.
Salary : $56,500 - $71,452