Aide, Life Skills/Special Education
Job Description
PRIMARY PURPOSE
Assist the special education teacher in the preparation and management of a Life Skills classroom. Provide instructional and physical support to students with significant cognitive and developmental disabilities. Help maintain a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment while promoting student independence in academic, social, and functional life skills.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education/Certification
High school diploma or GED
Valid Texas Educational Aide certificate or willingness to obtain
Special Knowledge/Skills
Patience and interest in working with students with disabilities
Ability to follow teacher directions and implement instructional strategies
Knowledge of basic classroom procedures and child development
Effective communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work as part of a team
Preferred
Experience working in a Life Skills or special education classroom
Training in behavior intervention or CPI (or willingness to complete training)
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Instructional Support
Assist in implementing IEP goals through daily instructional activities
Support students in academic tasks, communication practice, and life skills routines
Prepare materials and adapt resources as directed by the teacher
Monitor student progress and behavior; collect and document data as needed
Provide support with assistive technology, adaptive equipment, and mobility aids
Student Management
Support students with physical, behavioral, and emotional needs
Follow behavior intervention plans and assist with emotional regulation strategies
Supervise students during classroom transitions, lunch, restroom breaks, and other daily routines
Maintain confidentiality of student records and information
Other
Attend relevant trainings and staff meetings as required
Participate in safety drills, ARD meetings (if requested), and school functions
Follow all campus and district procedures, including emergency and safety protocols
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
Tools/Equipment Used: Standard instructional and office equipment, mobility aids, adaptive devicesPosture: Frequent standing and walking; some bending, kneeling and liftingMotion: Regular movement; frequent physical assistance or prompts to studentsLifting: Frequent light lifting and carrying (less than 15 pounds); Occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds or over) and positioning or students with physical disabilities, controlling behavior through physical restraint, assisting nonambulatory students, and lifting and moving adaptive and other classroom equipmentEnvironment: Work inside and outside (exposure to sun, heat, cold, and inclement weather); exposure to noise; exposure to biological hazards (bacteria, communicable diseases); exposure to behavior challengesMental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress and challenging student needs
EEOC Statement:Blanco I.S.D. will not discriminate against any person in employment or exclude any person from participating in or receiving benefits of any of its activities or programs on any basis prohibited on the bases of race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), sexual orientation, parental status, national origin, age, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or any other non-merit based factor. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring practices, appraisal systems, promotions, and training and career development programs.
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.
07/10/2025
