Position Title: Deaf and Hard of Hearing/ Visual Impairment Teacher
Reports to: Executive Director of Special Programs
Department: Special Education
Work Location: District Wide

School Year: 2025 - 2026

Primary Purpose:

The Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)/Visual Impairment (VI) Teacher will deliver specialized instruction tailored to students who are deaf or hard of hearing and/or visually impaired. This professional will work collaboratively with parents, administrators, and support staff to provide a comprehensive educational experience that guarantees equal access to the curriculum. This person will also implement personalized strategies in collaboration with the IEP team to address the educational needs of students who are deaf and hard of hearing or visually impaired that will aid in fostering success and independence for these students.

Qualifications:

Education/Certification:

Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Education, Special Education, or related field.

Valid teaching certification for Deaf and Hard of Hearing and/or Visually Impairment through the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of IDEA, Section 504, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) or other communication methods suitable for students with hearing impairments.

Proficiency in Braille and other instructional techniques for visually impaired students.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Experience:

3 years experience in special education

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Orientation and Mobility

1. Provide direct, specialized instruction and support to students with hearing and/or visual impairments in both individual and group settings.
2. Provide direct, specialized instruction to students with hearing and/or visual impairments in academic, social, and functional skills.
3. Collaborate with other educators and support staff to ensure the use of appropriate accommodations and modifications for students with hearing and/or visual impairments.
4. Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) in collaboration with the IEP team.
5. Assess students' academic and functional performance, modifying instructional strategies to meet individual needs.
6. Provide consultation and professional development for staff on strategies and accommodations for students with hearing and/or visual impairments.
7. Maintain accurate and timely records of student progress, IEP goals, and accommodations.
8. Assist students in the development of communication skills, including sign language, lip-reading, and/or speech.
9. Teach students skills for independence, including Orientation and Mobility, the use of assistive technology, and daily living skills.
10. Ensure appropriate materials, including Braille and large print resources, are available and adapted to meet students' individual needs.
11. Implement accommodations as per Section 504 and IDEA mandates to ensure students have full access to educational opportunities.
12. Communicate effectively with students, parents, and staff to provide updates on student progress and collaborate on strategies.
13. Serve as a resource for families to ensure understanding and utilization of services available under IDEA.

Student Management

1. Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level, interests, and needs of the student.
2. Establish control and administer discipline according to the Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.

Administration

1. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records and other documents required.
2. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.
3. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Special needs mobility and orientation equipment, including tactile maps, models, optical devices, global positioning system devices, alternative mobility devices, electronic travel devices (EDTs) and long canes; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals

Posture: Frequent standing, sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), occasional heaving lifting (16 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; may require regular districtwide travel to multiple work locations as assigned

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress

Equal Opportunity Employer

Gatesville ISD is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.