Teacher Of Visually Impaired (TVI) [SY21-22]

General Description:

Teachers of the Visually Impaired provide services to students with visual impairments which will allow them to access the BPS curriculum and to participate safely in both school and community life to the greatest extent possible.

Required:

• Master’s Degree from a University that is endorsed by Association of Education and Rehabilitation (AER)
• Massachusetts Teacher Certification in Visual Impairment

Responsibilities

• Assessment

• Teachers of the Visually Impaired will access students referred for assessment using appropriate testing instruments. And will determine the appropriate instructional medium (i.e., Braille, large print, etc.).
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired will write reports that reflect the results of standardized assessments and observations that contain information helpful and understandable to all involved parties and that contain clear recommendations.
• Assessments will be performed within timelines established in state and federal regulations.

• Vision Services

• Instructional and consultation services will be provided to students based on the individual needs of each student and in compliance with each child’s IEP or 504 Plan.
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired will provide services in the least restrictive environment.
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired will participate in pre-referral, Team Meeting, Student Support Team activities and will provide professional development to school based staff as requested.
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired will consult with other Related Services providers, teachers, and parents in order to provide effective services in a variety of settings.
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired will consult with medical and rehabilitation specialists.

• General Responsibilities

• Teachers of the Visually Impaired are to comply with state regulations concerning renewal of certifications.
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired are expected to develop, update, and adhere to both a daily and weekly schedule. Each school’s principal should be provided with a copy of that schedule.
• Teachers of the Visually Impaired are expected to maintain records of prior planning or lessons and to keep therapy notes for each child and therapy session and to maintain accurate records of student attendance.