Teacher of the Visually Impaired (26-27 SY)- District Wide

Primary Purpose

To provide direct/consultative services to students with visual impairments.

Qualifications

• Education/Certifications: Bachelor’s Degree, Valid Texas teacher certification, Valid Texas certification as Educator of the Visually Impaired
• Special Knowledge/Skills: Excellent command of UEB Braille and Nemeth code, Knowledge of braille pedagogy and ability to teach braille to advanced learners, Knowledge of abacus and electronic devices including braille and other specialized note takers, Comfort and skill in teaching functional daily living experiences, Familiarity with low vision tools, Knowledge of the Expanded Core Curriculum, Skill in interpersonal communication with peers, students, parents, and teachers, Ability to work with a wide range of students with visual impairments, Understand human behavior dynamics and an ability to interact effectively with educational personnel, Effective use of Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, and email

Major Responsibilities And Duties

• Instructional Strategies:
• For students learning Braille; teach Braille (contracted and uncontracted), Early Literacy Code/pre-Braille Skills, Literary Code, Nemeth Code, Abacus Skills
• Prepare sequential and meaningful instruction geared to the student's assessed needs, as determined by the ARD committee with goals and objectives
• Teach students low vision and visual efficiency skills
• Provide instruction in the development and maintenance of appropriate ECC skills
• Work with students to facilitate conversations with their peers to build social skills and relationships
• Through Self-Advocacy instruction, assist students in gaining knowledge, skills, and confidence to communicate the functional implications of their vision impairments with peers and others
• Technical Assistance:
• Serve as a resource and reference point for current information regarding education of the visually impaired and orientation and mobility services
• Help parents, districts, and other agencies related to appropriate services for students with visual impairments including orientation and mobility services
• Aid in planning and preparing materials and presentations for small group trainings
• Provide mentoring to other professionals as assigned
• Program Implementation (Regional Planning and Implementation):
• Assist with development and implementation of the IEP
• Aid in the development and updating of strategies for the implementation of regional Supplementary Services for the Visually Impaired (SSVI)
• Aid in the implementation of regional Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) program for students with visual impairments
• Communication/Collaboration:
• Participate in ARD/IFSP process for specified students with visual impairments
• Participate in IEP development for specified students with visual impairments
• Consult with IISD personnel on appropriate instructional and orientation and mobility strategies, techniques and materials for students with visual impairments
• Participate in periodic meetings with staff to explore issues, view new materials/equipment, and share and exchange information
• Problem Solving and Decision Making Skills:
• Exhibit initiative in finding and meeting needs and developing new ideas
• Exhibit good judgment in interactions with all clients
• Identify problems and suggest solutions in a positive manner
• Program Expertise (Direct Service Provider):
• Remain abreast of trends and developments in orientation and mobility services
• Provide instructional and consultative orientation and mobility services to eligible students
• Provide direct and consultative services for students with visual impairments
• Administer functional vision evaluation/learning media assessments; prepare computer-generated report of evaluation, proposed IEP/follow-up activities
• Document progress and submit six week student progress reports
• Prepare a summary of progress at least on an annual basis based on previously established IEP
• Develop an itinerant schedule for providing services
• Assist in the selection, acquisition and use of adaptive/assistive equipment and/or devices
• Assume responsibilities for and maintain confidentiality relative to student records/data
• Maintain records relative to supplementary services for the visually impaired activities and submit such records at times specified
• Be responsible for the accuracy of reports and caseload data
• Other Duties:
• Participate in team activities
• Perform other duties and functions as required by the Director of Special Education or designee
• Equipment Used:
• Computer, adaptive/assistive devices and equipment unique to needs of students with visual impairments
• Working Conditions:
• Frequent in-district and occasional in-state or national travel
• Occasional prolonged and irregular hours
• Safety:
• Contribute to the prevention of accidents and injuries by observing safety rules and District policy, practicing the principles and skills taught in safety training, wearing personal protective equipment as required, reporting injuries and incidences immediately to supervisor, and being proactive in the ongoing efforts to improve and maintain workplace safety