Special Education Teacher

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL FOR BLIND CHILDREN; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 46,501 - 59,935; Full time

Job summary

Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in Pittsburgh is seeking a Special Education Teacher / TVI to design, implement, and monitor individualized programs for students with visual impairments. The role involves collaboration with an inter-disciplinary team, families, and community providers to promote independence and academic growth.

The position requires 4‑year degree, PA TVI or Special Education certification, and a schedule of 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Qualifications

• Valid PA certification as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired or willingness to pursue TVI certification.
• Knowledge of educating students with multiple disabilities, including visual impairment.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement IEPs and RR reports in line with IDEA and state requirements.
• Create accessible lessons using braille, large print, tactile graphics, and auditory resources.
• Utilize assistive technology tools such as screen readers and refreshable braille displays.
• Lead team meetings and IEP meetings to coordinate student planning.
• Maintain accurate progress data and submit required reports and compliance documents.

Skills

IEP development

Collaboration

Communication

Instructional planning

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in related field

Job description

Job Details

• Location: Pittsburgh - Main Campus - Pittsburgh, PA 15213
• Position Type: Full Time
• Education Level: 4 Year Degree
• Job Shift: Day

About the School

Located in the heart of Oakland, Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is a unique educational institution committed to empowering visually impaired students to reach their full potential. The school offers early intervention and outreach services throughout Western Pennsylvania and has served approximately 200 students from 80‑85 school districts since its founding in 1887.

Position Overview

The Special Education Teacher / Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) designs, implements, and monitors individualized instructional programs for students with visual impairments and additional disabilities. The TVI works with a multidisciplinary team— including orientation & mobility specialists, assistive technology experts, related service providers, and families—to provide an equitable, accessible, and engaging learning experience that promotes independence, academic growth, and life skills. Additionally, the Outreach Teacher may design and deliver instruction for students with visual impairments who are not enrolled at WPSBC, providing services through contracts with surrounding districts and intermediate units.

Position Information

• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Schedule: 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. or 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (36 hours per week)
• Working Days: 189 days per year (excluding optional Extended School Year)
• Salary: $46,501 – $59,935 based on degree, experience, and salary scale

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.
  • Conduct functional vision and learning media assessments.
  • Provide direct specialized instruction tailored to the unique needs of students with visual impairments and other disabilities.
  • Design age‑appropriate, engaging lessons and activities, adapting curriculum, materials, and assessments into accessible formats such as braille, large print, tactile graphics, and auditory resources.
  • Utilize assistive technology tools including screen readers, refreshable braille displays, and magnification software.
  • Deliver academic, functional, and life skills instruction aligned with students’ IEP goals.
• B. Accessibility & Inclusion Support
  • Conduct assessments to determine appropriate instructional strategies and materials.
  • Ensure classroom environments, instructional content, and activities are accessible for students with varying visual and additional needs.
• C. Collaboration & Teamwork
  • 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 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.
  • 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

• Valid PA certification as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired or Special Education, or willingness to pursue TVI certification with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field.
• 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.

Physical Demands / Work Requirements

• Assist in lifting and positioning students when necessary, including lifting up to 50 pounds from the floor.
• Lifting and carrying objects such as equipment, books, and reports weighing 20 pounds or less.
• Frequent reaching, bending, twisting, crouching, stooping, kneeling, crawling, sitting, and walking, including stairs.
• Pushing wheelchairs and moving/sliding student equipment.
• Work in hot, humid environments during therapy pool activities and outdoor student activities.
• Maintain respectful communication with multiple team members.
• Perform maintenance and upkeep of educational and therapy areas (OT/PT gym, clinic rooms, storage rooms).
• Assist with student enrichment groups and adapted sports programming as assigned.
• Read and attend to computer screens and use typing equipment.
• Comply with established policies and additional duties assigned.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage applications from all qualified individuals.