Special Ed: Exceptional Children Teacher - Visually Impaired

FUNCTIONAL PURPOSE

The purpose of this position is to travel to students from assigned schools to provide direct and/or consultative special education services relation to visual impairments. These services aim to enable the student to learn in classroom and community environments. Assigned students range in age from 3 to 21, may have additional disabilities, and may have varying cognitive function.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform specialized assessments that will provide information regarding current academic and functional levels (i.e. Functional Vision Assessment, Learning Media Assessment, various assessments in the Expanded Core Curriculum, O&M assessment, etc.).
• Use information from assessments to recommend goals, accommodations, and classroom supports.
• Direct and train paraprofessionals assigned to work with students who are visually impaired.
• Provide updated information as requested by the IEP team for annual reviews, re-evaluations, and progress reports.
• Keep accurate records/data to document student progress on goals.
• Provide training, support, and encouragement to enhance student independence.
• Provide team members with information regarding the specialized strategies needed for success with each VI student.
• Assist in determining need for and procuring classroom equipment and materials necessary for students with visual impairments to learn (braille, low-vision devices, assistive technology, computer, etc.).
• Supervise, train staff, and/or create alternative materials such as braille, recorded materials, enlarged materials, digital materials, and tactile symbols appropriate for each child.
• Provide direct instruction in areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum.
• Work with outside agencies to support transition needs.
• Have current knowledge of use of and instruction in assistive technology for visual impairments including screen readers, braille displays, built-in accessibility options on computers, embossers, and braille translation software.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Demonstrated ability to utilize Unified English Braille (technical and non-technical materials).
• Ability to assess student needs and writing measurable goals for students.
• Ability to implement effective instructional and behavior management techniques.
• Clear understanding of federal and state Special Education laws.
• Ability to teach the expanded core curriculum areas.
• Ability to read and produce materials in Unified English Braille (UEB).
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and orally with students, parents, other staff and community members.

• Minimum: Bachelor of Science in Special Education – Visual Impairments and/or Orientation and Mobility
• Desirable: Master of Science in Special Education – Visual Impairment and/or Orientation and Mobility PLUS three years’ work experience as a TVI or O&M specialist.

• NC Teacher Certification in Visual Impairments – TVI
• Certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP) – O&M
• Valid NC Driver’s License