SY 24-25 Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Job Description

Job Summary

Provides itinerant orientation and mobility services to visually impaired students in order to improve mobility and independent functioning. Assesses visually impaired students to determine eligibility for service. Provides consultative service to school staff and parents within the School District of Philadelphia. Participates in the multi-disciplinary team process and individual educational programming activities for students where relevant.

Essential Functions

• Participates in the diagnostic and Individualized Education Program (IEP) process for all students suspected of being visually impaired; evaluates students in the areas of orientation and mobility.
• Provides training and direct instruction in orientation and mobility techniques and in the use of orientation and mobility materials and devices including visual efficiency skills, utilization of residual vision, concept and sensory development, spatial orientation, familiarization to environments, and utilization of tactile, visual and auditory maps.
• Trains students on the necessary skills, which enable them to navigate familiar and unfamiliar environments, including retail stores, offices, and public transportation; trains students on self-advocacy and how to handle emergencies.
• Collaborates with teachers and assists in the development and implementation of the IEP as it relates to orientation and mobility services; works with teachers of the visually impaired to conduct functional vision assessments as it relates to independent travel.
• Develops long-term and short-term goals for each student; monitors student progress and adjusts goals as needed; maintains records of evaluations on student progress.
• Works with administrators, teachers, and other educational staff to support the implementation of students' IEPs; collaborates with teachers and other school personnel to develop and implement strategies for students receiving orientation and mobility services.
• Designs, implements orientation, and mobility instruction based on assessment and observation of students; collect and maintain data to document and evaluate progress.
• Serves as a resource person to special education teachers and other professional / paraprofessional staff members engaged in the delivery of programs and services to visually impaired students.
• Keeps abreast of new developments and techniques in orientation and mobility.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.

Certificates / Licenses