Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Orientation and Mobility Specialist Assist students with visual impairments to learn how to travel safely and independently in their home, school and community environments. Duties and Responsibilities Instruct the visually impaired student in the development of skills that enables him/her to travel independently, based on assessed needs and ability in the IEP. Consult with parents and staff to assist in home and classroom environmental modifications and adaptations to reinforce and encourage independent travel by the visually impaired student. Work with the teacher of visually impaired students to conduct functional vision assessments as they relate to independent travel. Work with the student (as recommended in the ARD/IEP) in various community locations to provide meaningful instruction in realistic learning environments. Provide training to school personnel, parents and peers concerning the O&M needs of the student and methods for interacting with the visually impaired student that will foster independence and safety. Conduct evaluations of orientation and mobility needs of the visually impaired student and recommend appropriate O&M goals and objectives, modifications and specialized services for consideration by the student’s ARD committee. Prepare, distribute and maintain low vision devices and equipment related to travel and the development of O&M skills. Provide orientation of new school buildings and new class schedules to students with visual impairments as needed. Emphasize social integration with peers and provide opportunities for interaction. Attend all ARD meetings on students with visual impairments as they relate to O&M. Maintain confidentiality. Perform other duties as assigned. Experience Experience working with children with special needs Qualifications Education and Certification Bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired Academy certification Special Knowledge and Skills Working knowledge of special education policies and procedures as well as state and federal guidelines for special education students Knowledge about community-based resources available to the student with a visual impairment Strong communication, organizational and interpersonal skills Equipment Used Equipment and materials (tactile, low vision, adaptive mobility) used for the development of O&M skills Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors Maintain emotional control under stress District travel and community travel Occasional prolonged/irregular hours Salary: Teacher Pay Scale - go to Human Resources section of webpage and select "Pay Plans". #J-18808-Ljbffr