Temporary Teacher of the Visually Impaired 2026-2027 School Year

About the Role

To provide direct instruction, technical support, and skills; this includes providing appropriate tools, materials, and curricular support as well as help in functional areas of daily living and vocational areas.

Qualifications

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License for the Blind and Partially Seeing
• Bachelor’s Degree required; Master’s Degree preferred
• Working knowledge of Braille and ability to teach Braille
• Knowledge of abacus and ability to teach multiple methods
• Knowledge of electronic devices including Braille and other specialized note takers (Pac Mate, Braille Note, etc.)
• Comfort and skill in teaching functional daily living experiences
• Familiarity with low vision tools
• Knowledge of the Expanded Core Curriculum
• Ability to work well with mainstream teachers and related service staff
• Commitment to professional development

Responsibilities

• Provide appropriate, individualized instruction to each student on the caseload
• Develop lesson plans and schedules that meet the goals of each student
• Provide consultation and assistance to mainstream teachers regarding physical and instructional modifications needed for each student
• Establish open, frequent communication with parents and all related and mainstream staff
• Present appropriate and specific information on student’s progress toward goals, including evaluative and progress data at IEPs and Eligibility Determinations
• Complete and present detailed functional vision evaluations as part of any three-year evaluation (when included on a domain sheet)
• Demonstrate ability to implement technical skills for the visually impaired, including:
  • Reading and teaching Braille
  • Utilization and ability to teach Abacus (multiple methods depending on student need)
  • Teaching students to use appropriate low vision aids and tools to maximize their functional vision
  • Teaching signature and slate and stylus
  • Interpreting medical reports and helping students and families understand the student’s vision loss at an appropriate level
  • Developing and implementing appropriate individual and classroom behavior management skills/programs
• Assist students in developing listening skills
• Assist team in following through on appropriate sighted guide and safe travel skills within the classroom and building
• May require skills in positioning, feeding, and developing language
• Coordinate and create materials in the student’s preferred media
• Assist students in developing appropriate social and independent skills across the curriculum
• Participate in appropriate staff meetings to review and discuss student needs and progress
• Participate in professional development meetings as requested
• Establish and maintain a positive atmosphere in working with staff to ensure this atmosphere is carried over for the student
• Teachers teaching content area subjects must be highly qualified in that area

Pay

Compensation set by the SASED Board of Directors (negotiations underway; refer to 2026 rates).

Schedule

184-day work year.