What are the responsibilities and job description for the ASL Specialist for Students and Families position at American School for the Deaf?
CLOSING DATE: UNTIL FILLED
The American School for the Deaf (ASD) is the oldest school for the deaf, founded in 1817 by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc. The American School for the Deaf is committed to serving deaf and hard of hearing infants, youth, and their families in development of intellect and the enhancement of quality of life utilizing specially designed instruction through an American Sign Language and English Bilingual Approach, empowering them to become educated and self-directed life-long learners.
ASD is located in West Hartford, a town recognized as one of the top ten towns for raising families. West Hartford residents value education, evidenced by the high quality of public and private schools. There is also much to do in West Hartford. There is a wide array of parks and recreation. There are pools and hiking trails. There are historic sites to visit as well. If shopping is on the list, then Blue Back Square, located in the center of town, offers many retail stores and a variety of restaurants to satisfy everyone.
SCOPE OF DUTIES
Summary: ASD is seeking a dynamic and highly motivated Sign Language Specialist to join the new ASL Department. Reporting to the supervisor of the ASL Department, the Sign Language Specialist will work with staff and families to provide ASL instruction, conduct evaluations of sign language proficiency, track and monitor data, and create innovative ASL experiences and programs for students, staff, and families.
PRIMARY DUTIES
- Provide evaluation of signing proficiency of students
- Data collection and tracking of student language evaluations
- Work closely with the Director of Education to develop and implement strategies for improving ASL acquisition outcomes for students
- Create, maintain, and coordinate administration of ASL On-Site and Virtual Instruction for families
- Promote ASL proficiency by creating and implementing ongoing ASL Programming for students and families
- Work collaboratively with different departments to promote Deaf Culture understanding through programs such as Family Learning Day, New Hire Orientation presentations, ASL Immersions
- Provide ASL Linguistic training for families, staff, ASD Board, and External Partners
- Assist with developing and implementing Bilingual policies campus-wide
- Other related duties as assigned
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Native fluency or near native fluency in ASL
- Background and knowledge in ASL linguistics/Deaf Studies
- At least two years of teaching ASL and Deaf Culture courses at a High School or College level
- Must be able to work and communicate effectively with staff, students, families, ASD Board, ASD Alumni and community members
- Strong organizational and computer skills
- Maintain confidentiality
- Must be committed to being flexible and be able to interact with different kinds of personalities
- Knowledge of ASL Linguistics and Grammar
- Must have in-depth knowledge and appreciation of Deaf culture and community
- Ability to organize and manage projects; review, analyze, and evaluate data
- Ability to meet deadlines within a team environment, willingness to work some evenings and weekends on as needed basis
Preferred Qualifications:
- ASL Bilingual Teacher certification
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in related subject
- Experience with Kendall Conversational Proficiency Levels
- Experience with VSCL
- RST/EST Evaluator Certification
- ASLPI Rating of 4 or above
SALARY AND BENEFITS:
- Compensation range is based on experience and available upon request
- Outstanding benefits package including Retirement with school matching, group health insurance, and other fringe benefits.
- $1000 sign on bonus after one year of service
ASD is ALL ways able. If you require an accommodation for applying to this position, please contact the Human Resources Department.
The American School for the Deaf does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's age, ancestry, color, genetic information, learning disability, marital status, past or present history of mental disability, intellectual disability, national origin, physical disability, race, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy, transgender status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or civil union status) work place hazards to reproductive systems, and criminal record (in state employment and licensing).
All applicants will be screened, and the most highly qualified applicants will be invited to interview.
