What are the responsibilities and job description for the Special Education Life Skills Teacher position at Pewitt CISD Elementary School?
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
SCHOOL YEAR 2026-2027
Position Title: Elementary Special Education Life Skills Teacher
Primary Purpose:
Provide functional, individualized instruction to elementary students with significant disabilities in a self-contained classroom. Emphasize foundational academic skills, communication, social development, and daily living skills to support student growth and independence. Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) while fostering a structured, supportive, and engaging learning environment that promotes independence and student success.
Qualifications:
Education/Certification:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university
- Valid Texas teaching certificate with required Special Education endorsements
Special Knowledge/Skills:
- Knowledge of functional curriculum and TEKS for Grades 1–5, including prerequisite and alternate standards (STAAR Alternate 2)
- Strong understanding of foundational academic instruction (reading, writing, and mathematics) for students with significant disabilities
- Ability to design and implement individualized, functional, and differentiated instruction
- Skills in behavior management, including positive behavior supports and crisis intervention
- Experience with assistive technology and adaptive equipment
- Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
Experience:
- Student teaching, internship, or experience working with elementary students, preferably in special education
Major Responsibilities and Duties:
Instructional Strategies
- Provide direct, individualized, and small-group instruction in a self-contained classroom
- Develop and implement a functional curriculum addressing foundational academics, communication, social skills, and daily living skills
- Deliver explicit instruction in core academic areas, including:
- Early literacy (phonics, comprehension, vocabulary)
- Writing (emergent and structured writing skills)
- Mathematics (number sense, basic operations, problem-solving)
- Design lessons aligned to grade-level TEKS while adapting content to meet individual student needs
- Incorporate hands-on, multi-sensory, and research-based instructional strategies
- Utilize assistive technology, visual supports, task analysis, and structured teaching strategies
- Collaborate with general education teachers to support inclusion opportunities when appropriate
- Participate in ARD/IEP meetings and instructional planning
Case Management Responsibilities
- Serve as case manager for assigned students receiving special education services
- Develop and implement compliant IEPs with measurable academic and functional goals
- Monitor and document progress toward IEP goals
- Ensure compliance with all timelines, documentation, and legal requirements
Student Growth and Development
- Assess student progress using appropriate formal and informal tools
- Provide instruction in communication skills, including expressive and receptive language
- Teach social skills such as peer interaction, turn-taking, and appropriate classroom behavior
- Support development of independence through daily routines and structured activities
- Reinforce positive behavior and self-regulation skills
Classroom Management and Organization
- Create a structured, safe, and supportive classroom environment tailored to individual needs
- Establish consistent routines and implement positive behavior intervention strategies
- Manage student behavior in accordance with IEPs and behavior intervention plans
- Supervise and direct paraprofessionals in implementing instruction and student support
- Ensure student safety in all settings, including classroom and school environments
Communication and Collaboration
- Maintain ongoing communication with families regarding student progress and academic development
- Collaborate with general education staff, therapists, and support personnel
- Participate in professional development related to special education and elementary instruction
- Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with all special education requirements
Supervisory Responsibilities:
- Supervise and direct paraprofessionals and classroom support staff
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:
- Frequent standing, walking, bending, and lifting (including assisting students with mobility and transfers)
- Provide support with personal care needs (e.g., toileting, feeding, hygiene)
- Maintain emotional control and patience in a structured, high-support environment
- Possible exposure to biological hazards associated with personal care
Why Join Our District?
- 4-Day School Week
- Small School Atmosphere
- Strong Community Support
- Competitive Salary and Benefits
- Retention Stipends
Contact:
Shelly Knight, Special Education Director
Pewitt CISD
US HWY 67 West
Omaha, TX 75571
Email: sknight@pewittcisd.net
Phone: 903-884-2136
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Position remains open until the applicant is officially hired.
AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
Pewitt CISD does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, disability.
Title IX Coordinator: Darlene Greenlee, P.O. Box 1106, Omaha, TX 75571, (903) 884-2804.