Special Education Teacher - .6 Teacher for the Visually Impaired ...
Federal Way Public Schools - Federal Way, Washington, United States, 98003![Federal Way Public Schools](/api/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fgeneral-board-default.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com%2Fpublic%2Fimages%2Fdesk-360x180.webp&w=640&q=75&f=webp)
Work at Federal Way Public Schools
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Overview
Date Posted:4/12/2024
Location:To be determined
Date Available:09/03/2024
Closing Date:Until FilledPOSITION SUMMARY : The Orientation and Mobility Specialist Teacher assesses plans, organizes and teaches orientation and mobility/vision compensatory skills for visually impaired students ages 3 through 21 in the school and community. Direct service as well as consultation is provided to students, schools, staff, and parents. The teacher works with other staff to integrate students into the regular classroom. The teacher travels to the student's assigned schools and/or homes to provide direction and/or consultative special education services relating to the vision loss.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
include the following. This list is meant to be representative, not exhaustive. Some incumbents may not perform all the duties listed while in other cases related duties may also be assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Perform orientation and mobility evaluations that focus on long and short term needs of the student.Provide consultation and support services to parents, regular and special education teachers, other school personnel, and sighted peers.Work with the teacher of visually impaired students to conduct the functional vision assessment as it relates to independent travel.Evaluate the student's progress on an ongoing basis, and keep progress notes on each student.Assist in determining and procuring classroom equipment and materials necessary for the student with visual impairments to learn (braille, low vision devices, assistive technology, and computers.) including necessary room modifications and lighting changes.Provides specially designed instruction in the appropriate educational media: regular print, large print, braille, auditory, or a combination for students with visual impairments, as determined by the IEP.Instruct the visually impaired student in the development of skills and knowledge that enables him/her to travel independently based on the IEP.Teach students with vision impairments to travel with proficiency, safety and confidence in familiar and unfamiliar environments.Transport the student to various community locations, as necessary, to provide meaningful instruction in realistic learning environments.Be responsible for the student's safety at all times and in all teaching environments while fostering maximum independenceOTHER RESPONSIBILITIES:
Be knowledgeable about community funding available for the students with vision impairmentsProvide in-service training to general and special education personnel, administrative personnel, sighted peers and parents concerning the O&M needs of the student and appropriate methods for interacting with the student with vision impairments that will foster maximum independence and safety.Participate in necessary parent conferences and meetings as well as teacher's staffing meetings regarding the students with vision impairments.Maintain adequate records on all assessments, IEPs, progress reports and signed parental consent forms for permission to travel in O&M specialist's personal car/district vehicle.Actively participate/collaborate in an instructional team with other Special Education staff who are serving students with vision impairments.Interpret and explain eye conditions and educational implications for school staff responsible for instruction of students with visual impairmentsRegister students with visual impairments with appropriate agencies such as Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic, Washington Talking Book and Braille Library, Washington Instructional Resources Center and Department of Services for the Blind.Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit and supporting student learning objectives.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Education and ExperienceBA degree in EducationOne year experience teaching Braille
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:Washington State Teaching Certification with endorsement in Special Education Certification as an orientation and mobility instructorPositive Evaluations
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Master's degree in Special EducationPrevious experience with direct instruction, data collection, behavior management and data analysis
CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:Pass a criminal background checkValid WA State Driver's License and proof of insuranceType II driver's license obtained within 60 days of hireFirst Aid and CPR certification within 90 days of hire and maintain certificationWork scheduled hours on a consistent basis
KNOWLEDGE OF:School board policies and proceduresBraille and basic mobility/orientation instruction techniquesFunctional low vision and low vision aidsFunction and use of assistive, accommodative devices for use by students with visual impairmentsSchool board policies and procedures
ABILITY TO:Demonstrate basic knowledge of modern technology and willingness and ability to increase knowledge to proficiencyCommunicate effectively verbally and in writingDevelop and implement appropriate positive behavior interventions for studentsWork independently and work collaboratively with others fostering a team approach providing excellent customer serviceMaintain a good work attendance record, be punctual, and follow District procedures for reporting all absences.Work as part of a multidisciplinary teamPractice effective safety and security within individual work routines.Develop and maintain positive relations with staff and service providersRemain flexible to changes in assignments or situationsDemonstrate the desire, skill and patience to work with students with special emotional, academic and social needs, which may include violent behaviorDemonstrate a caring attitude and establish an environment that encourages appropriate behavior and successful learningExercise good judgment as to when to act independently and when to refer to higher authorityPractice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of strict confidentialityCommunicate effectively with staff, students, parents/guardians, and the public in a multicultural and multiracial communityDemonstrate interest in and provide evidence of continued personal and professional growthPerform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodations
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES RELATED TO CULTURAL COMPETENCE AND EQUITY:Knowledge/awareness of own cultural identity and how this influences behavior, and desire to learn about the cultural identity of others.Ability to establish and nurture an environment that promotes cultural competence and equitable treatment of staff, students, and patrons of the District.Ability to understand and hold self and others accountable for promoting the Federal Way Public Schools' commitment to "Each Scholar: A Voice. A Dream. A Bright Future."Ability to recognize that each person is a unique individual even as we celebrate their group cultural heritage.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee will constantly sit, stand and walk, bend neck and back, use hands for repetitive grasping and pushing/pulling. The employee must be able to see, hear, and speak English. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is frequently required to squat, kneel, and use hands for fine manipulation. The employee will occasionally be required to climb stairs/ladder, lift and reach overhead, crawl, and lift/carry. The employee must constantly lift/carry up to 10 lbs and must occasionally lift/carry up to 35 lbs. Any lifting over 35 lbs should be done with two people or a mechanical device. The employee is occasionally required to push/pull a maximum force of 200 lbs.WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in indoor and outdoor conditions. This position regularly works near a video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Position occasionally exposed to angry, frustrated, or aggressive individuals, typically in a school classroom environment. Potential exposure to infectious diseases. The employee must adjust to frequent interruptions in their work schedule. The employee will occasionally be required to transport students in district vehicle.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPThe Visually Impaired/Orientation and Mobility Specialist Teacher reports directly to the Director of Student Support Services or designee and maintains the following relationships:
Building Principal and Program Directors - The teacher is supervised and accountable to the Director of Student Support Services & the Assistant Director of Special Education for interpreting and executing the above responsibilities in addition to other related responsibilities assigned by the Executive & Assistant DirectorPersonnel/Staff Members - The teacher communicates regularly with program staff, building personnel and other staff members in order to assist them in meeting District program goals.
CLASSIFICATION HISTORYUpdated 7/2023Update with physical demands/working conditions 07/2015
POSITION SUMMARY
:The itinerant teacher for students with visual impairments travels to the students' assigned school to provide direct and/or consultative special education services relating to vision loss. The teacher is responsible for evaluating students, coordinating and implementing programming to provide an appropriate education for students with visual impairments in their educational program placement. The students range in age from three through 21 years and may have only a visual impairment or additional disabilities.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
Preparing, implementing, and evaluating an annual educational plan for each visually impaired student based on individually assessed needs in accordance with district procedures.Participating on multidisciplinary teams for visually impaired students as appropriate.Interpret and explain eye conditions and educational implications for school staff responsible for instruction of students with visual impairments.Conducts functional vision evaluations and learning media assessments for enrolled and referred students with visual impairments.Provides specially designed instruction in the appropriate educational media: regular print, large print, braille, auditory or a combination for students with visual impairments, as determined by the IEP.Provide braille, recorded, enlarged materials and tactual symbols as appropriate for each student.Knowledge of the function and use of assistive, accommodative devices for use by the students with visual impairments.Assist in determining and procuring classroom equipment and materials necessary for the student with visual impairments to learn (braille, low vision devices, assistive technology, computer) including ensuring necessary room modifications and lighting changes.Knowledge of basic orientation and mobility techniques used with visually impaired persons.Knowledge of functional low vision and low vision aids prescribed for use by students with visual impairments.Collects data to demonstrate educational progress of students.Prepares instructional materials for student use.Provide the classroom teacher with information regarding the specialized strategies needed to teach a visually impaired student.Developing and conducting in-service program to inform building staff of the accommodations needed by the visually impaired student.Provide training and support to parents of students with visual impairments regarding their individual needs and strategies to enhance their children's independence.Register students with visual impairments with appropriate agencies such as Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic, Washington Talking Book and Braille Library, Washington Instructional Resources Center and Department of Services for the Blind.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Education and ExperienceBA in Education
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:A current Washington State Teacher's Certificate with a Special Education Visual Impairment EndorsementHighly qualified per NCLB regulations if teaching a CORE subject area is a requirement of assignmentReliable transportation between sites
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Training or experience in serving students with mild to severe disabilitiesProficiency in participating in a Functional Behavior Analysis and developing a Positive Behavior Support plan, including identifying and teaching replacement skills
CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:Criminal background clearanceWashington State Driver's license and proof of insuranceFirst Aid and CPR certificate and maintain certificationWork scheduled hours on a consistent basis
KNOWLEDGE OF:School board policies and proceduresBest practices in leading and motivating employeesComputer systems and various software programs504 laws and regulationsNursing professional standardsHealth Board standards, state mandates, practices and procedures for school health programsBudget managementResearch and development of grant proposals. Coordinate and supervise grants.Medicaid Match and Direct Billing Programs
ABILITY TO:Establish and maintain effective working relationship with staff, parents, and the general publicSkill in operating a computer and ability to learn and use various software programsWork effectively under pressureComply with school board policies and follow administrative proceduresOrganize and perform job responsibilities efficiently and independently without close supervision and able to pay strict attention to detailCommunicate effectively through spoken and written word; read and follow written or verbal communicationsPractice effective safety and security within individual work routinesDevelop and maintain positive customer relations with staff and service providersWork collaboratively with District staff and promote teamwork with co-workersPractice ethical and professional standards of conduct including the requirements of confidentialityRelate effectively with parents, staff, students and the public in a multicultural and multiracial communityPerform job responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodations
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES RELATED TO CULTURAL COMPETENCE AND EQUITY:Knowledge/awareness of own cultural identity and how this influences behavior, and desire to learn about the cultural identity of others.Ability to establish and nurture an environment that promotes cultural competence and equitable treatment of staff, students, and patrons of the District.Ability to understand and hold self and others accountable for promoting the Federal Way Public Schools' commitment to "All Means All".Ability to recognize that each person is a unique individual even as we celebrate their group cultural heritage.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, and walk. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this job, the employee will constantly sit, stand and walk, bend neck and back, use hands for repetitive grasping and pushing/pulling. The employee must be able to see, hear, and speak English. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, and ability to adjust focus. The employee is frequently required to squat, kneel, and use hands for fine manipulation. The employee will occasionally be required to climb stairs/ladder, lift and reach overhead, crawl, and lift/carry. The employee must constantly lift/carry up to 10 lbs and must occasionally lift/carry up to 35 lbs. Any lifting over 35 lbs should be done with two people or a mechanical device. The employee is occasionally required to push/pull a maximum force of 200 lbs.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in indoor and outdoor conditions. This position regularly works near a video display. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. Position occasionally exposed to angry, frustrated, or aggressive individuals, typically in a school classroom environment. Potential exposure to infectious diseases. The employee must adjust to frequent interruptions in their work schedule. The employee will occasionally be required to transport students in district vehicle.
WORK SCHEDULEThis position typically works, Monday through Friday in a school year schedule.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPPosition reports to and is evaluated by the building administrator, department director, or designee.
REPRESENTATIONFederal Way Education Association (FWEA)
LEVEL OF COMPENSATIONFederal Way Education Association (FWEA) salary scheduleBenefits include:
CLASSIFICATION HISTORYUpdate 07/2023Update 12/2015
DisclaimerThe preceding list is not exhaustive and may be supplemented as necessary. The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions of this job, the scope of responsibility and the level of knowledge and skills typically required, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements, skills or duties so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.
All employment open positions are made available on a nondiscriminatory basis without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, age, disability or veteran status.
Job descriptions are written as a representative list of the ADA essential duties performed by the entire classification. They cannot include, and are not intended to include, every possible activity and task performed by every specific employee .