Special Education Teacher

WESTERN PA SCHOOL FOR BLIND CHILDREN; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in Oakland seeks a dedicated Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) to design, implement, and monitor individualized programs for students with visual impairments and additional disabilities. The long-term substitute position is full-time and involves collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to ensure an equitable, accessible learning experience.

The school supports pursuing TVI certification, including potential reimbursement for

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Special Education is required.
• Valid PA certification as TVI or Special Education is required or pursued.
• Willingness to seek TVI certification and complete coursework.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement IEPs and RR reports.
• Conduct Functional Vision and Learning Media Assessments.
• Provide specialized instruction for students with visual impairments.
• Adapt curriculum for accessible formats (braille, large print, tactile graphics).
• Utilize assistive technology to support learning.
• Lead and participate in IEP and team meetings.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Special Education

PA Teacher of the Visually Impaired or Special Education certification

Willingness to pursue TVI certification

Job description

Located in the heart of Oakland, Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is a one-of-a-kind educational experience committed to empowering our students to realize their full potential. The School also provides vital early intervention and outreach services to visually impaired students, with or without additional challenges, throughout western Pennsylvania. Founded in 1887, our School is best equipped to care for and educate students with visual impairments. As a private institution chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the School educates approximately 200 enrolled students from 80-85 school districts within western Pennsylvania.

Position Summary:

The Special Education Teacher / Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) is responsible for designing, implementing, and monitoring individualized instructional programs for students with visual impairments and additional disabilities. The TVI collaborates with a multidisciplinary team— including related service providers, orientation & mobility specialists, assistive technology experts, and families to ensure students receive an equitable, accessible, and engaging educational experience that fosters independence, academic growth, and life skills.

In this role, you would act as a Long-Term Substitute, floating between classrooms based on staffing needs (the role is full time still). Then after 2 years, or before, you will need to decide if you would like to pursue your Teacher of the Visually Impaired Certification. We can pay for the schooling, it would just require you to complete the coursework and receive the certification. We can explain more on this during the interview process as well.

Job Information:

Mondays-Thursdays 7:45am to 3:00pm; Fridays 8:00am to 3:00pm; 189 days per year; non-exempt

Responsibilities:

A. Instructional Planning & Delivery

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Re-evaluation Reports (RRs), in accordance with IDEA, state, and school requirements.
• To conduct required assessments, including Functional Vision Assessments and Learning Media Assessments.
• Provide direct specialized instruction tailored to the unique needs of students with visual impairments and other disabilities.
• Focus on student engagement while organizing the structure of the classroom, including designing age-appropriate and relevant lessons and activities.
• Adapt and modify curriculum, materials, and assessments into accessible formats, including braille, large print, tactile graphics, and auditory resources.
• Utilize assistive technology tools such as screen readers, refreshable braille displays, magnification software, and other accessibility supports.
• Deliver academic, functional, and life skills instruction aligned with students’ IEP goals.

B. Accessibility & Inclusion Support

• Conduct functional vision assessments and learning media assessments to determine appropriate instructional strategies and materials.
• Ensure that classroom environments, instructional content, and activities are accessible for students with varying visual and additional needs.
• To serve as the classroom and Educational Team leader for instructional aides and related services providers.
• Work closely and collaboratively with the classroom team and all related service providers.
• Actively involve families in the educational planning process and provide resources to support student learning at home.
• Lead team meetings and IEP meetings to ensure a coordinated approach to student success.

D. Data Collection & Progress Monitoring

• Maintain accurate, timely documentation of student progress toward IEP goals.
• Use data-driven decision-making to adjust instructional strategies and interventions as needed.
• Submit required reports, evaluations, and compliance documentation per school and state regulations.

E. Behavior & Social-Emotional Support

• Implement Positive Behavior Intervention Plans (PBIPs) when required, using proactive and evidence-based strategies.
• Foster the development of social, emotional, and self-advocacy skills to encourage independence.
• Support the creation of a safe, respectful, and supportive classroom environment.

F. Professional Development & Leadership

• Stay current with best practices in vision education, assistive technology, and special education research.
• Attend ongoing training, workshops, and professional development opportunities related to teaching students with visual impairments.
• Serve as a resource to colleagues and staff regarding instructional strategies, accommodations, and accessibility needs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Special Education
• Valid PA certified as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired or Special Education (must hold bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field and willing to seek TVI certification)
• Knowledge of educating students with multiple disabilities, including visual impairment. Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Previous experience teaching students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities preferred.