S20V Paraprofessional: Visual Impairments

Characteristics of Class

Under supervision of a teacher/administrator, assists in the direct delivery of instruction in a classroom setting with pupils eligible for special education services under Blind/Vision-Impaired as determined by an individualized education program (IEP) or Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP).  The primary objective of such assistance is to facilitate access to curriculum content and support learning for mastery through instructional methods and strategies required for a visually-impaired student.  The employee assists certificated staff by: implementing lesson plans (activities which include reviewing and correcting the work of pupils), participating in parent conferences, proctoring examinations, keeping relevant records, operating instructional equipment and technology in instructional settings as well as performing related duties as required.

An ability to translate and adapt materials to and from English into that language(s) may also be required in language suffix positions.

In positions that require an employee to drive, the employee shall furnish a certificate of clearance from the Department of Motor Vehicles in order to meet District insurability.

Distinguishing Characteristics

Under the supervision of a special education teacher/administrator, employee must work with students with visual impairments.  Duties include assisting in the preparation and implementation of the curriculum designed to serve the pupil population that is visually impaired.

Minimum Qualifications

One of the following:  An Associates Degree or higher or 48 college units and a high school diploma or passing of CBEST and a high school diploma. 

Keyboarding ability.

Ability to learn new technology as student needs and equipment change.

Continuing education coursework in Braille and/or related vision-impaired background preferred.

Knowledge, Abilities and Skills

Utilizes knowledge appropriate to satisfy the distinguishing characteristics of the class listed above, examples of which may include familiarity with teaching methods, instructional media, test scoring, school organization, and school rules and regulations. 

Demonstrates ability to perform tasks utilizing computer-based instructional technology for students with visual-impairments and able to facilitate related instruction.

Demonstrates competency in performing the following tasks: working with pupils identified with blindness/visual impairments by an IEP/IFSP; able to act quickly and effectively in emergencies; working with and relating to all individuals within the culturally diverse environment of SFUSD; and developing and maintaining effective, courteous communications with pupils, staff and public.

Examples of Duties: S20V

Assists in planning lessons and preparing instructional materials individualized to the needs of students with visual-impairments..

Works in accordance with an individualized education program (IEP/IFSP), supervises and/or tutors individuals or small groups of pupils in specific skill and/or content areas.  Conducts planned lessons with assigned groups in the classroom or other assigned educational location. 

Assists in explanation of subject matter.  Administers tests and examinations, and reviews and corrects assignments, and maintains individual pupil profiles.  Assists in evaluating pupils.

Prepares and maintains records and lists not required by law to be so maintained by certificated personnel.

Prepares, operates, and maintains instructional equipment and supplies such as audio/visual equipment, computers, laboratory equipment, and other teaching machines.  May also procure and store such equipment.  Issues various supplies and equipment to pupils, and maintains necessary records pertaining to instructional equipment and supplies.

Assists in maintaining classroom discipline in order to provide a positive learning environment.  Enforces classroom and school rules.  Assists in behavior management and discipline among pupils on field trips and at school site activities.

May assist student in navigating classroom hallways, locker areas,  cafeteria, yard, auditorium, gymnasium, lavatories, and other areas of the site, including travel training in accordance with program regulations.

Able to render first aid in compliance with modern precautionary methods.  Reports disciplinary problems and injury incidents to the proper supervisor

May assist the professional staff in publicizing educational development programs by issuing information, objectives, and functions of the program.

Assist with pupils’ personal needs such as lifting up to 50 lbs, toileting, and positioning if required.  Diapering may be required of some Pre-K positions.

Performs related duties as required.