[Rehab] FW: Job Posting Vocational Rehabilitation Teachers

[Dick Davis]

Please see Iowa post below.

Dick Davis



*From:* Helen Stevens <Helen.Stevens at blind.state.ia.us>
*Sent:* Wednesday, May 6, 2020 8:24 AM
*Subject:* Job Posting Vocational Rehabilitation Teachers



Good morning,



Below is the job posting for our Vocational Rehabilitation Teacher
positions for our 4+ Young Adult Transition program. Please be aware that
there will be two separate postings for this program, one for Youth
Services Workers, and one for Vocational Rehabilitation Teachers. Please
don’t hesitate to reach out to me with questions, and thank you for your
help spreading the word.



Thanks,

Helen



*Iowa Department for the Blind *

*JOB ANNOUNCEMENT*

Vocational Rehabilitation Teacher

Young Adult Transition Program



Location: Des Moines, Iowa

Salary Minimum: $49,691.20

Salary Maximum: $75,691.20



Post Close Date: May 17, 2020



Job Description:

This is a courtesy posting for a non-merit position.  Please follow
instructions in the “To Apply” section for directions on how to apply for
this position.



The Iowa Department for the Blind (IDB) is seeking four energetic and
passionate teachers for its new Young Adult Transition Program for blind
youth. Ideal candidates will possess a strong teaching ability and a belief
in the capacity of blind persons. IDB can provide training in the specific
blindness skills areas listed if needed.

The Young Adult Transition Program is a school-year based program for youth
who have finished high school, but who need additional instruction in order
to participate in post-secondary learning and employment opportunities.
Primary areas of instruction will include career exploration, literacy,
orientation and mobility, technology and independent living skills. Each
teacher will be assigned specific areas of focus. During the summer,
teachers will work with IDB’s summer program for youth ages 14-21 teaching
the same subjects as during the school year.



Duties and responsibilities to include the following:

Provide Workplace Readiness, Self Advocacy and Disability-Related skills
training to blind youth in comprehensive residential training programs such
as the Young Adult Transition Program and LEAP Program.

Teach students to read and write contracted braille, travel using the long
white cane, and utilize access technology including smart phones and
computers with screen reading software.

Work with students to explore potential career paths, develop job readiness
skills, and participate in volunteer and paid work-based learning
experiences.

Serve as a role model for students in the use of nonvisual techniques and
problem-solving skills.

Develop curricula, assessments and teaching materials for teaching blind
youth in areas such as literacy, orientation and mobility, career
exploration, money management, self advocacy, and independent living.

Work with students and their families, IEP teams, vocational rehabilitation
counselors, case workers and others as appropriate to assist each student
in planning for his/her next steps after completion of the program. Develop
individualized goals for each student. Assist students in advocating for
their wants and needs. Assist students in learning how to utilize supports
as needed without giving up their independence and self-autonomy. Assist
students in transitioning to college, the IDB Orientation Center and/or
community living as appropriate.

Document student progress through monthly, quarterly and end of program
reports. Measure students’ progress toward their goals on an on-going basis
through the use of data and rubrics. Collaborate with other program staff
and supervisor to address student needs and concerns.

Promote a positive philosophy of blindness through involvement in trainings
and community outreach events for parents, educators and other service
providers as directed.



Essential functions of this position:

Demonstrate and Promote a positive philosophy of blindness

Actively participate in program activities

Communicate regularly with program leaders regarding student needs and
concerns

Document student progress through regular written reports

Read and write contracted braille

Teach clients to utilize the contracted braille code proficiently;
including the use of English grammar, spelling and sentence structure.

Independently travel (using a long white cane under sleep shades)

Teach clients to travel using a long white cane



It is the policy of the Department for the Blind to conduct background
checks on all finalist candidates prior to any offer of employment.



For further information, contact Helen Stevens, 515-829-7411 or
helen.stevens at blind.state.ia.us



To Apply:

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral
requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human
Resources Enterprise.  Persons who wish to be considered for this position
must submit a resume and letter of application to:



Helen Stevens

Education and Training Director

Iowa Department for the Blind

524 4th Street

Des Moines, IA 50309-2364

helen.stevens at blind.state.ia.us