Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments/Orientation & Mobility

State of Washington • Thurston County - Multiple Locations, WA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is dedicated to empowering individuals with blindness and low vision to achieve their full potential. WSSB offers a variety of programs and services, including residential options on its Vancouver campus, outreach services in local communities, access to specialized technology and resources, and training for parents and educators. The school values its staff and encourages continuous improvement in service delivery, with core values of being student-centered, promoting equity, accessibility, strong relationships, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in education or other relevant field of study.
• Current Washington State Teaching Certificate, or ability to obtain one.
• Certification as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired from an accredited and nationally recognized university program.
• Must have Unified English Braille Exam (UEB) certification or Library of Congress certification or be able to obtain either within one year of hire date.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Effective time management skills.
• Ability to set high expectations that support the acquisition of student's independence and success.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse groups.
• Ability to work independently.

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Teacher of Visually Impaired Learner/Orientation & Mobility program.
• Teaching experience as an itinerant teacher of blind/low vision learners.
• Experience working with children with complex needs including blindness.
• Orientation & Mobility Certification.

Responsibilities

• Travel to and cover the regions of Olympia, Thurston County, and other regions based on need and contracted services.
• Perform or facilitate necessary learning media assessments: functional vision, technology, and orientation & mobility.
• Provide direct and consultative services as per Individual Education Plans (IEP).
• Provide workshops and in-services to assist families and school district personnel in understanding the unique needs of visually impaired learners.
• Assist districts in obtaining necessary alternative format materials and equipment as identified through the IEP process.
• Collaborate with families, students, and district personnel to develop IEP goals and objectives in the expanded core curriculum.
• Prepare meaningful instruction geared to the learner’s assessed needs, as identified in the IEP.
• Provide consultation to classroom teachers and other involved personnel, and adapt materials as needed to enable the learner to benefit from instruction.
• Maintain ongoing communication with all parties involved in the learner’s education, including parents.

Benefits

• Salary paid in accordance with the Vancouver School District salary schedule based on education and experience for 180 days per school calendar year.
• Teachers are not eligible for the vacation or holidays listed in the Benefits tab.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level