POSITION PURPOSE:   

The EC Hearing Impaired Teacher plans and provides direct instruction and support to students with hearing impairments based on their IEPs.  Work involves developing and implementing the Individual Education Program in classroom settings that are compatible with the student’s age and developmental level based upon collaboration with school staff, families, and the IEP team. The EC teacher is responsible for developing and implementing appropriate teaching methods, monitoring student progress, and staying current with best practices in hearing-impaired/deaf education.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Candidates should hold (or be eligible to have) an NC teaching license for Hearing Impaired (Grades K-12).

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in an approved program in special education

 KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Considerable knowledge of the necessary principles and application of theory into practice for practical instruction and positive behavioral supports that are beneficial for implementation with all students with hearing impairments
• Considerable knowledge of OCS curriculum and instructional strategies for students with hearing impairments 
• Considerable knowledge of human behavior, development, and skill performance
• Considerable knowledge of individual differences in ability, personality, and interests
• Considerable knowledge of student learning and motivation techniques
• Thorough understanding of OCS policies and effective instructional practices
• Thorough knowledge of federal, state, and local mandates governing the determination of delivery of special education services
• Ability to complete observations, conduct IEP (Individual Education Plan) meetings, and create relevant IEPs for each student
• Complete the initial eligibility and reevaluation process for each student
• Ability to work effectively with administrators, colleagues, central office and school-based staff, students, parents and community members

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution in an approved program in special education, specifically hearing-impaired
• Experience working with students with special needs
• Any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities 

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

• Must possess valid NC certification in the area of Exceptional Children in Hearing Impairments K-12 or be eligible to receive certification
• Must possess a valid driver’s license issued by the NC Department of Motor Vehicles

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree from an accredited institution in an approved program in special education
• Three (3) to five (5) years of successful, highly qualified experience teaching students with hearing impairments
• Spanish Speaking
• Demonstrates proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) or a willingness to acquire sign language skills to effectively communicate with students who are deaf or hard of hearing.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide direct support to students with hearing impairments based on their IEPs

• Adapt teaching methods to meet individual student needs
• Collaborate with other educators, families, students, and related service providers to ensure a supportive, inclusive learning environment
• Develop, implement, and monitor student IEPs to ensure the IEPs are aligned with each student’s unique needs and goals
• Maintain open & effective communication with students, families, and school staff regarding student progress and continued needs
• Assess students’ progress by collecting data and using that data to inform instruction and guide interventions
• Participate in professional development opportunities
• Stay abreast of best practices in hearing-impaired/deaf education
• Act as a case manager for assigned students, coordinating services and ensuring they have access to necessary resources
• Be familiar with and able to utilize various assistive technology devices 
• Know and adhere to relevant state and federal laws, regulations, and policies related to special education