Special Education Teacher

Renfrew Educational Services is a not-for-profit, registered charity operating as an independent school. We are an acknowledged leader in program development for children with disabilities. For 50 years Renfrew has offered a wide range of programs and services to children from Calgary and surrounding areas.

We are currently accepting applications for a full-time permanent Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments for the 2024-2025 school year. Please refer to the Renfrew Educational Services webpage: http://www.renfreweducation.org under the ‘Services & Programs’ for more information about the programs and services that Renfrew provides. Must be willing to travel in Calgary and surrounding areas.

Job Summary: Provides services as a resource in the ongoing development of specialized curriculum (all braille codes, adaptive technology, social skills, keyboarding etc.) for students with visual impairments. Serves as a resource providing guidance and support to teachers in the design and implementation of instructional strategies, resources, practices and/or transition plans. Develops, monitors, and evaluates special projects and courses for students with visual impairments.

Accesses and interprets ophthalmology and/or optometric results and conducts functional vision assessments to determine educational implications and needs. Screens new students who have visual impairments to determine educational and resource needs. Assesses students with visual impairments and interprets and uses unique assessment data for instructional planning with students who are visually impaired (academic, social, compensatory and life skills).

Provides instruction and direct student support unique to students with visual impairments including: pre-braille, braille reading and writing, optical and non-optical devices, adaptive equipment computer technology, social skills, listening and transition planning. Assists in the development of IPP’s and Student Learning plans. Provides school-based school district/agency-wide professional learning activities that support teaching and learning for students with visual impairments Consults with school staff regarding environmental adaptations to meet the needs of the student (seating location, adaptation for board work, etc.).

Collaborates with school staff in integrating students with visual impairments. Assists in maintaining adaptive equipment including setting-up, troubleshooting, and repairing. Develops and maintains a high level of knowledge and awareness of current theory and practice related to meeting the learning, behavioral and social-emotional needs of students with visual impairments.

Develops and maintains a high level of knowledge and awareness of current adaptive technology unique to the learning needs of students with visual impairments. Maintains contact with community services and agencies in order to develop a coordinated program of services to assist schools and families to access appropriate resources. Makes specific recommendations for Educational and Braille Assistance based on ongoing assessment of students with visual impairments as required.

Provides support, consultation, and specialized training to Educational Assistants in braille and adaptive technology as required. Engages with parents/guardians as members of the student learning teams. Qualifications: Valid Alberta Teaching Certificate Masters in Vision Education preferred Trained in Unified English Braille (UEB) Successful teaching experience with students with a visual impairment An equivalent combination of directly related education and experience may be considered Knowledge and understanding of Alberta Education’s Program of Studies, Standards for Special Education and Expanded Core Curriculum for Blind and Visually Impaired Ability to support professional learning Ability to build effective relationships, to establish rapport and influence various interest groups and stakeholders Ability to contribute towards an environment of creativity, diversity and innovation Ability to encourage initiative and informed risk-taking in others Ability to respect and value all individuals combined with sensitivity to diversity Ability to work as a member of an education team Trustworthiness, reliability and integrity A reliable vehicle, auto insurance with a minimum $2,000,000.00 liability and driver’s license is required Willingness to travel We Offer: Competitive salary and benefits package Excellent professional development opportunities Supportive team dynamics and regular opportunities for collaboration Excellent mentorship and leadership Safe and supportive workplace Consistent work hours How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit the following: A cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience.

A current resume. Contact information for three professional references. Please send your application to the Staff Resource Team at: employmentrenfreweducation.org While we thank all applicants for their interest, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Renfrew Educational Service is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees