[Blindtlk] Job posting at BLIND, Inc.

[Dick Davis]

Blindness: Learning In New Dimensions (BLIND), Inc.
100 East 22nd Street, Minneapolis, MN  55404
612-872-0100, <http://www.blindinc.org/>www.blindinc.org

SEEKING A COMMUNICATIONS INSTRUCTOR

             We are looking for someone who is passionate about 
teaching, excited by new challenges, and interested in working as 
part of a small but energetic team. For over 25 years, Blindness: 
Learning In New Dimensions (BLIND, Inc.) has provided small group 
instruction in the alternative techniques of blindness. Our programs 
are based on a positive attitude toward blindness and a belief in the 
normality and competency of blind people. We know that with proper 
training and opportunity, blind people can live full, happy, and 
successful lives.
             Students at BLIND, Inc. learn Braille and computers in 
an integrated curriculum that teaches both at the same 
time.  Students learn Braille using the innovative Code Master 
Braille instruction system, which the successful applicant will learn.

Duties and Responsibilities

1.   Provide individualized instruction to blind  adults in all areas 
of Braille, including but not limited to:

    * Memorization of the braille code
    * Braille reading
    * Writing braille with  a slate and stylus
    * Writing braille on a braille writer
    * Reading and writing braille on electronic devices including 
notetakers and braille displays

2.   Provide individualized instruction to blind  adults in all areas 
of assistive technology including but not limited to:

    * Windows operating systems
    * JAWS for Windows and other screen readers
    * Microsoft Office applications
    * The internet
    * Braille displays
    * Smart phones

3. Provide instruction to several adult students in a small group format.

4. Use the curriculum to develop individualized lesson plans and 
update the curriculum as needed.
5. Write comprehensive monthly reports on each student describing 
progress made and goals to be completed.

6. Participate and assist in all center activities such as rock 
climbing, skiing, and camping, including on some evenings and weekends

7. Function as part of a team, maintaining close communication with 
the director and other instructors, and actively participate in staff 
and other meetings.

8. Promote the organization's progressive philosophy of blindness and 
positive attitudes to students, co-workers and others, and provide 
support and guidance to students throughout their program. Actively 
represent BLIND, Inc. in public meetings and presentations.

9. Actively promote the philosophy of the National Federation of the 
Blind both during and outside of class.

10. Other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements

1. Expertise in the areas of Braille and assistive technology, 
especially with Windows screen reader software.

2. Able to pass the NCLB test and the technology tests administered 
by State Services for the Blind of Minnesota within 6 months of employment.

3. Willingness to undergo and successfully complete a period of paid 
staff training in order to learn alternative skills of blindness. 
This includes learning the Code Master Braille instruction system.

4. Must have a college degree or comparable work experience.

5. Ability to plan, organize and develop lessons.

6. Must possess excellent written and verbal communication skills and 
must be able to work effectively as part of a team

7. Must demonstrate the ability to work with a variety of people in a 
variety of situations.

8. Must possess the organizational skills required to work with 
multiple students on multiple projects.

9. Must be able to learn new products and updates as they become available.

10. Must be committed to the independence and full community 
integration of blind people.

Please send cover letter and resume to Dick Davis, Interim Executive 
Director, at <mailto:ddavis at blindinc.org>ddavis at blindinc.org, or to 
the address listed above. Questions?  Contact Helen Stevens, 
Communications Instructor, at 
<mailto:hstevens at blindinc.org>hstevens at blindinc.org.