Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS)

QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s and/or Master’s Degree in Special Education Current Ohio Pupil Services License-COMS AER/Academy certification. Must be able to travel to various locations on a daily basis.

JOB SUMMARY:
Assist students with blindness and visual impairments to achieve maximum independence through instruction in safe, efficient travel within a variety of settings. The COMS travels to the students’ assigned schools or other location to provide direct and/or consultative special education services relating to vision loss. The COMS is prepared to provide service to an array of student’s pre- school through high school with blindness, vision loss, and accompanying disabilities. Community-based services and bus/transportation training is a critical component of the O & M program.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Perform functional vision evaluations and learning media assessments on new referrals and re-evaluations as requested. Write and interpret reports.
2. Interpret eye medical reports as they relate to educational environments.
3. Assess the extent visual impairment may affect school/community travel.
4. Assist in determining the eligibility and the appropriate placement of students with visual impairment per Ohio definition of visual impairment and special education.
5. Comply with local, state, and federal regulations regarding due process procedures.
6. Serve as integral team member and work cooperatively with local school district administrators, administrators of assigned schools, teachers, parents, and other appropriate team members.
7. Orient the classroom teachers to the unique travel needs of students with visual impairments.
8. Identify and provide appropriate orientation and mobility instruction to students in a variety of settings and needs.
9. Write measurable goals and objectives for individual students. Progress monitor and provide data reporting per district need.
10. Assist in the modification of the classroom and school environment for the student with visual impairment.
11. Provide training in the following special skills when appropriate: optical aids, concept development and cane travel.
12. Assist and participate in the transition processes for early childhood and high school. Work with agencies to promote a smooth transition process.
13. Recommend appropriate specialized equipment for student travel needs.
14. Provide direct instruction to student per IEP goals and objectives.
15. Obtain necessary training and updates for Van Driver’s License (ODE rules). Hold a valid Ohio Driver’s License and provide own transportation. Must be able to travel to various locations on a daily basis.
16. Promptly submit all student billing, travel forms, leave requests, reports, by stipulated deadlines.
17. Protect confidentiality of students and comply with HCESC policy and procedures.
18. Maintain professional currency through yearly growth and development.
19. Instructs students with visual impairments in residential and business areas.
20. Instructs students with visual impairments appropriate use of public transportation.
21. Transport students to teaching locations.
22. Writes weekly lesson plans and maintains student progress data.
23. Maintain appropriate attendance per HCESC policy.
24. Exhibit professionalism by managing conflict and offering positive solutions.

SALARY & BENEFITS:
Salary to be established by the Board.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY AND ADA STATEMENT:
The Hamilton County Educational Service Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and endeavors to provide the highest quality service through employing professionals selected for their competence and expertise. The Governing Board of Hamilton County Educational Service Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), disability, age, religion, military status, ancestry, genetic information (collectively, "Protected Classes"), or any other legally protected category, in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.

Submit Letter of Interest with Resume to:
Hamilton County Educational Service Center
11083 Hamilton Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45231
Attn: Melissa Heitzman
melissa.heitzman@hcesc.org