What are the responsibilities and job description for the Braillist & Personal Care Assistant position at Perquimans County Schools?
Job Title: Braillist & Personal Care Assistant
Department: Exceptional Children Services (School-Based)
Reports To: Principal and/or Supervising Teacher (Teacher of the Visually Impaired when applicable)
Position Summary
This dual-role position combines the responsibilities of a Braillist and a Personal Care Assistant to support students with visual impairments and complex health or physical needs. The employee will transcribe educational content into accurate braille formats and provide individualized daily assistance to students, enabling full access to the curriculum and safe participation in the school environment. The role requires collaboration with educators, therapists, and school staff to deliver timely instructional materials and consistent care throughout the school day.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Braille Production & Academic Support
Transcribe classroom, testing, and supplementary materials into braille using standard software and equipment.
Produce embossed and electronic (refreshable) braille materials as required.
Register and serve as an Accessible Materials Producer (AMP) through the State NIMAC Coordinator when needed.
Proofread braille materials and student work for accuracy in braille code and prepare corresponding print versions for staff.
Assist with collecting and organizing progress-monitoring data for students using braille.
Attend IEP and planning meetings to provide input on braille support and instructional materials.
Maintain organization of braille documents, production schedules, and equipment.
Personal Care & Student Support
Provide direct individual care that enables students to remain safely in school and access the educational environment, including mobility support, toileting, feeding assistance, and basic human functions.
Accompany students throughout the school day, maintaining safety and assisting with physical and/or behavioral needs.
Collaborate with supervising teachers to administer and monitor therapies, medications, or specialized treatments.
Assist with transferring students to/from wheelchairs, toilets, or other equipment as needed.
Collect and record accurate daily data related to student care and activities.
Perform clerical and classroom support as directed to help maintain an orderly learning environment.
Uphold confidentiality and dignity in all interactions with students and families.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Familiarity with braille production technologies, equipment, and software.
Strong command of English grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
Working knowledge of elementary and secondary curricula to transcribe content correctly.
Ability to interpret and apply braille code with precision.
Demonstrated ability to plan and organize work to meet deadlines efficiently.
Capacity for physical assistance duties, including lifting and transferring students safely.
Excellent interpersonal skills to build cooperative working relationships with students, educators, and staff.
Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills in both academic and care contexts.
Effective verbal and written communication in standard English.
Training & Experience
Successful completion of a reputable braille training or certification program (e.g., literary braille certification).
Experience producing braille materials in an educational setting is preferred but not required.
Experience working with students with physical, medical, or behavioral needs preferred.
High school diploma or equivalent required; some college or related coursework helpful.
Physical Requirements
Must be able to frequently stand, walk, and engage in physically assisted activities (lifting up to approximately 80 lbs occasionally and 30 lbs frequently) consistent with school-based care duties.
Use of standard office and classroom equipment (computers, copiers, etc.) as part of daily tasks.
Working Conditions
Work is performed in a school setting under general supervision from administrators and cooperating teachers.
Duties may require adaptation to student schedules, individual needs, and IEP/meetings.
Position supports inclusion of students with disabilities in school activities and requires flexibility, empathy, and professional standards of conduct.
Disclaimer
This job description is intended to reflect the general nature and level of work performed by employees in this position. It is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities and may be revised as needed to meet organizational goals.
FLSA: Non-exempt
Perquimans County Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Perquimans County Public System does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, political affiliation citizenship status, veteran status, or genetic information or testing in any of its educational or employment programs or activities.