PRIMARY PURPOSE:

Provide direct instruction to visually handicapped students, ages 0-22, requiring special expertise to ensure academic success (Braille, Braille readiness skills, use of low vision aids, sensorimotor stage skills, efficient use of residual vision, pre-orientation and mobility skills, use of adaptive equipment, social and self-help skills, career and vocational skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Minimum Education/Certification:

TEA teacher certified in Visually Impairments

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Visual loss and education impact

Use of Braille transcription equipment and optical aids

Assessment procedures for VH students

Minimum Experience:

2 years experience with VH students preferred

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

1. Consult with regular classroom teachers and other appropriate staff to support the student in the mainstream classroom.

2. Assist school staff in adapting material for Braille students or for students with low vision.

3. Coordinate orientation and mobility services as needed.

4. Coordinate visually handicapped instruction with ECI personnel.

5. Train classroom teachers of the MH VH student in developing and implementing a program of visual efficiency skills. Train classroom teachers of the MH VH student in adapting programming for students with limited or no vision.

6. Locate, contract, and arrange for Low Vision Clinic services as needed.

7. Counsel with students and their families about the nature of and effects of individual visual problems. Train older students and parents of infants in case management skills.

8. Cooperate with other members of the staff and ESC-VH staff in planning and implementing instructional goals, objectives, and methods in accordance with district requirements.

9. Assist students in analyzing and improving methods and habits of study.

 10. Assess the accomplishments of students on a regular basis and provide progress reports as required.

 11. Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned and may sponsor outside activities approved by the school.

 12. Present for students a positive role model that supports the mission of the school district.

 13. Assess and respond to needs related to job responsibilities.

 14. Create a classroom environment that is conductive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interests of the students.

 15. Establish control in the classroom and administer discipline in accordance with board policies and administrative regulations.

 16. Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.

 17. Assist in the selection of books, equipment, and other instructional materials.

 18. Establish and maintain open lines of communication with students and their parents.

 19. Maintain ongoing communication with vision screening personnel (school nurses), ECI programs, Department of Health, and the Texas State Commission for the Blind so that they know how to refer students with visual problems.

 20. Maintain a professional relationship with all colleagues, students, parents, and community members.

 21. Use acceptable communication skills to present information, accurately and clearly.

 22. Participate in the district staff development program.

 23. Be aware of new developments in education of the visually handicapped, including new technological devices, through locating and attending inservice opportunities with in the state and through participation in local VH teacher meetings, local VH interagency council meetings, and professional associations.

 24. Demonstrate interest and initiative in professional improvement.

 25. Demonstrate behavior that is professional, ethical, and responsible.

 26. Keep informed of and comply with state, district, and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.

 27. Compile, maintain, and file all reports, records, and other documents required.

 28. Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Ability to communicate (verbal and written); ability to instruct; maintain emotional control under stress.

FISD pays $315 a month towards TRS Health Insurance.
You can earn up to 5 local and 5 state days.

The above statements are intended to describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not intended to represent an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required. The Administration and/or supervisor have the right to add or change duties at any time.

This job description supersedes all prior job descriptions for this position as well as rescinding all past and present job descriptions that do not reflect the current requirements of this position.

Fredericksburg ISD is an equal opportunity employer.