High Desert ESD celebrates all cultures and languages and is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive considerations for employment without regards to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.

2 positions available

Teacher of the Visually Impaired

40 hrs/week, Mon-Fri, 189 days per year
Benefits include family insurance package, vacation, paid sick leave and holidays, tuition reimbursement program, generous PERS contribution

Definition    The Teacher of Visually Impaired provides direct and consultation services to children with vision impairments, their families, teachers, and other support staff within the High Desert Education Service District.

Qualifications   Requires a valid Oregon Teacher of the Visually Impaired license issued by TSPC under Administrative Rules and Oregon Statutes. Dual competency in Vision and Orientation and Mobility (O&M) is preferred; university trained O & M specialist is preferred. Previous experience teaching children of all ages with visual impairments, and experience in specialized technology for vision-impaired students is preferred. The ability to perform significant reaching, bending, stooping, crouching and lifting 50 pounds is expected. Must have access to reliable transportation, and consistent attendance is required. Applicants must have successful experience in working with culturally diverse families and communities, and/or have otherwise demonstrated a commitment to equity and strengthening engagement of a diverse community and skill in communicating with a diverse population.

Classification   Licensed

Reports To       Support Services Supervisor

Performance Responsibilities

1. Provide direct instruction in the expanded core curriculum for visually impaired, required to meet the unique educational needs of the students.
2. Assist the student, parents, special and regular education personnel, and sighted peers in:
   1. Understanding the unique educational needs and learning characteristics of visually impaired students;
   2. Acquiring services and assistance from local, state, and national programs for visually impaired students;
   3. Interpreting the visually impaired student's specific eye condition, the educational implications of the visual impairment, and the results of functional vision assessments.
3. Provide visually impaired students with devices and technological apparatus useful in academic learning and training in their uses
4. Provide adapted materials and equipment to allow students with vision impairments equal access.
5. Assist with assessment; (classroom, district & statewide) including Learning Media Assessment and Functional Vision Evaluation
6. Provide in-service programs for all school personnel and students, and parent education regarding the needs, adaption, equipment and services for visually impaired students
7. Provide and train on equipment and technology in order to increase academic learning for visually impaired students.
8. Assist the site administrator and teacher(s) in making adjustments for the student in the school situation
9. Share responsibility with the classroom teacher(s) and student in the identification of instructional areas in which the student requires assistance
10. Attend Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings for students with visual impairments
11. Assist IEP Team/parents in the development of a realistic understanding of the child's abilities, progress, and future goals, and promote parent participation in, and reinforcement of, the education program
12. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with others
13. Communicate appropriately and regularly through use of email
14. Respect and maintain confidential information in all situations
15. Sit on local and statewide committees as needed
16. Fulfill other related duties as assigned

Terms of Employment A contract renewable annually by the Board of Directors, under the terms and conditions of the statutes and administrative rules of the State of Oregon, conditioned upon successful evaluation and the employee's maintenance of a current, valid teaching credential.  Salary and benefits are established by policy and collective bargaining agreement.