.5 Orientation and Mobility Specialist (2026-2027) SY

Orientation And Mobility Specialist

Assist students with visual impairments to achieve maximum independence through instruction in safe, efficient travel within the home, school, and community. Services include instruction in compensatory skills including daily living skills, self-advocacy, recreation and leisure skills as related to orientation and mobility. Students may range in ages from birth, through 21. Students may be functionally blind or have low vision. Community-based instruction is a critical component of the orientation and mobility program.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Participate in the referral and assessment process of visually impaired students.
2. Conduct evaluations of the orientation and mobility needs of visually impaired student which include concept development (spatial-positional, temporal, environmental, body image and movement); orientation to the environment; techniques of effective and safe travel; use of low vision devices; sensory development; self-advocacy; personal safety; efficient use of vision for travel.
3. Participate on the IEP committee including developing appropriate IEP/IFSP and O & M goals and objectives; recommend any modifications to program or specialized services needed based on the visual impairment.
4. Develop and implement an instructional plan based on identified student needs.
5. Provide direct O & M instructional services to students with visual impairments and consultation to school staff, peers, and community.
6. Order, distribute and maintain canes and low vision devices related to travel.
7. Team with vision teacher and other instructional related services personnel.
8. Consult with and advise school personnel on design and provision of safe efficient environments.
9. Provide direct instructional services to students with visual impairment in accordance with evaluation.
10. Maintain confidentiality with sensitive matters.
11. Be flexible and able to prioritize tasks and maintain accurate and detailed records.
12. Report to work on time and work no less than 7.25 hours per day.
13. Work independently with very little supervision.
14. May be required to perform other related duties/functions as assigned by your supervisor.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelors and/or Master's degree.
2. Current AER/Academy Certification.
3. Experience with school aged children with multiple impairments.
4. Valid Driver's license and Car Insurance.
5. Ability to travel between schools/sites.

Physical Requirements:

Sitting, standing, lifting and carrying (up to 40 pounds), climbing stairs, reaching, squatting, kneeling, having full mobility of fingers/hands, and moving light furniture may be required, unless ADA accommodations have been mutually agreed on and does not create an undue hardship upon the district.

Safety and Health:

Knowledge of universal hygiene precautions (blood borne pathogens, body fluids, etc.)

Equipment/Material Handled:

Must know how to properly operate, or be willing to learn to operate, multi-media equipment including current technology as needed.

Work Environment:

Must be able to work within various degrees of noise and temperature. Interruptions of work are routine. Flexibility and patience are required. Must be self-motivated and able to complete job assignments without direct supervision. After hours work may be required. May make site visits when needed. May work under stressful conditions on occasion.

Terms of Employment:

Salary and work year to be established by the Board.