Teacher Visually Impaired; SY- District Wide

Position: Teacher of the Visually Impaired (26-27 SY)- District Wide
IRVING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

TEACHER OF THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:

Teacher of the Visually Impaired

WAGE/HOUR STATUS:
Exempt

REPORTS TO:

Director of Special Education

PAY GRADE:
Teacher (187 days)

DEPARTMENT:
Special Education

DATE REVISED:
June 2020

This position is eligible for a Chapter 21 contract.

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

* Possess 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, and knowledge of the Expanded Core Curriculum

* Knowledge and skills required to administer and interpret appropriate assessment and evaluation instruments

* 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

* Drive self in own vehicle to multiple school sites and homes in the district to provide services

* 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

* Assist 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

* Assist in the development and updating of strategies for the implementation of regional Supplementary Services for the Visually Impaired (SSVI)

* Assist with 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…