Specialist - Assistive Technology

Job Description General Responsibilities

Responsible for overseeing the school division’s Assistive (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). and initiatives. Coordinates and provides leadership for the identification, sourcing, training, and utilization of AT devices, equipment, services, and accessible instructional materials. Collaborates with a variety of RCPS employees and other stakeholders on the implementation and use of AT, including but not limited to special education teachers, case managers, special education supervisors, related services personnel, school administrators, and parents.

Ensures AT equipment and resources are properly logged, distributed, maintained, and functional for student use. Develops the overall RCPS AT program by utilizing current research-based best practices in assistive technology for student and staff needs, employee professional development, and school division guidelines and procedures.

• Serves as a resource to special education teachers and school administrators regarding evidence-based practice in the field of AT.
• Plans, designs, and provides professional development to employees and staff regarding various aspects of AT (devices, applications, equipment, etc.) and accessible instructional materials (AIM).
• Remains apprised and informed of federal/state laws, and school division policies, related to AT.
• Assists the Executive Director of Special Education and special education supervisors in the development, maintenance, and dissemination of procedures, forms, and resources related to AT.
• Provides expertise in the consideration, implementation, and documentation of AT in the special education and/or Section 504 process.
• Monitors the progress and effectiveness of the school division’s AT program.
• Responds to requests for input by IEP teams concerning assistive technology, and coordinates follow-up actions to include consultation, observation, and/or student evaluation.
• Consults on the purchase of AT equipment, materials, and resources; maintains accurate logs and inventories of school division AT resources.
• Collaborates with the Department of Technology to address installation and management of assistive technology devices and applications, technology initiatives, and accessibility of instructional resources.
• Attends IEP, Section 504, and/or eligibility meetings as appropriate to provide informed team consideration of AT for students with communication, behavioral, adaptive, and/or specialized learning needs.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Considerable knowledge of special education regulations, policies, and procedures. Extensive knowledge of assistive technology devices and methods which address the unique needs of children with physical, sensory, learning, and intellectual disabilities. Demonstrated ability to facilitate use of AT, appropriate to the context of the classroom and other areas of the school environment, including seating and positioning to promote effective use of AT.

Strong proficiency with the concepts, principles, methodologies, and best practices of assistive technology services in the educational setting. Demonstrated ability in effective communication, orally and in writing, including technical writing necessary for IEP development and evaluation for eligibility.

Required:

Bachelor’s Degree in special education, occupational therapy, rehabilitation, or related field. Current Virginia Collegiate Professional License with appropriate endorsement(s).

Preferred:
Master’s degree;
Virginia Post-Graduate Professional License with appropriate endorsement(s); 3-5 years of work-related experience in assistive technology.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential tasks.

Work is typically performed in an office or school location. Regular travel to school locations.

RCPS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs and activities. The following person(s) has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies:
Hayley Poland – Title IX Coordinator .