2024-25 Deaf Plus Teacher

ROLE AND PURPOSE

• The Teacher for the Deaf will provide direct classroom instruction to students in the Regional Day School Program for the Deaf (RDSPD) as specified in each student’s individual educational plan (IEP) with an emphasis on functional skills, language and communication skill development.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification

• Bachelor’s degree from accredited university, required
• Master’s degree preferred
• Valid Texas teaching certificate in: required
• Deaf/ Hard of Hearing (EC-12)
• Generalist
• ESL
• TASC (Texas Assessment of Sign Communication) required

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Knowledge of Deaf / Hard of Hearing instructional services including:
• Auditory/listening skills training
• Oral speech modeling and reinforcement
• Vocabulary and language development using visual modality and oral / aural methods i.e. Visual Phonics
• Use of Total Communication to provide instruction
• Use and maintenance of amplification equipment
• General knowledge of academic instruction in math, reading, writing, social studies and science
• Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
• Strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:

Instructional Strategies

• Develop and implement lesson plans that fulfill the requirements of district’s curriculum program and show written evidence of preparation as required.
• Prepare lessons that reflect accommodations for differences in student learning styles.
• Present subject matter according to guidelines established by Texas Education Agency, board policies and administrative regulations.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
• Conduct regular assessments of students as indicated by the Regional Day School Program for the Deaf (RDSPD).
• Work cooperatively with general and special education teachers to modify curriculum as needed for special education students according to guidelines established in Individual Education Plans (IEP).
• Work with other members of the RDSPD staff to determine instructional goals, objectives and methods according to district requirements.
• Communicate with students using sign and voice during instruction.
• Provide communication access to students who are deaf / hard of hearing at all times (interpreting).
• Provide an oral emphasis for students as specified in the IEP using oral/aural instructional techniques.
• Provide instruction in the State Adopted Extended Core Curriculum for students receiving instruction from a teacher of the deaf / hard of hearing. Also, use district alternate curriculum when indicated by the IEP.
• Plan and supervise assignments of teacher aide(s), interpreter(s) and volunteer(s).
• Use instructional technology to strengthen teaching/learning.

Student Growth and Development

• Help students analyze and improve study methods and habits.
• Conduct ongoing assessment of student achievement through formal and informal testing.
• Participate as a member of the IEP team.
• Document student progress on IEP’s.
• Assume responsibility for extracurricular activities as assigned. Sponsor outside activities approved by the campus principal.
• Be a positive role model for students. Support the mission and vision of the school district.

Classroom Management and Organization

• Create classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social and emotional development of students.
• Manage student behavior in accordance with Student Code of Conduct and student handbook.
• Take all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials and facilities.
• Assist in selection of books, equipment and other instructional materials.

Communication

• Establish and maintain open communication by conducting conferences with parents, students, RDSPD administrator, principals and teachers.
• Maintain a professional relationship with colleagues, students, parents and community members.
• Provide consultation and collaborate with ECI staff, otologists, audiologists, sign language interpreters on staff and from agencies, classroom teacher assistants, SSA member districts and AISD support staff including RDSPD administrative staff.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly.

Professional Growth and Development

• Participate in Deaf Educators specific training opportunities:
• SEE Skillshop/ Communication Skills Workshop
• Deaf Education Professional Learning Communities
• Visual Phonics (as opportunities arise)
• Statewide Conference for the Deaf (as opportunities arise)

Other

• Keep informed of and comply with the Regional Day School Program for the Deaf Shared Service Arrangement.
• Keep informed of and comply with state, district and school regulations and policies for classroom teachers.
• Compile, maintain and file all reports, records and other documents required.
• Attend and participate in faculty and RDSPD meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Supervise assigned teacher aide(s), if applicable.

WORKING CONDITIONS: Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environment Factors

• Maintain emotional control under stress. Frequent standing, stooping, bending, pulling and pushing. Move small stacks of textbooks, media equipment, desks and other classroom equipment.

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