A Special Education Teacher teaches students who have disabilities, and adapts teaching methods to meet the needs of students. Assesses students and helps to develop individualized education plans that specify the services and accommodations needed for each student. Works in a classroom that includes only students with IEPs, or works with students and teachers in regular classes. For students with severe disabilities, may focus on developing skills for independent living. Works as part of a team that includes therapists, school counselors or social workers.
Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency dedicated to providing special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture. This postion For the the School. The Teacher of the Visually Impaired works 182 days per year for 7 hours per day and earns, $55,501.11 - $109,508.30 depending on experience. The Teacher of the Visually Impaired works with students with vision impairment in school settings by assessing their needs, developing individualized plans, and implementing interventions to help them succeed academically, socially, and physically. Teacher of the Visually Impaired Job Duties Provide direct services to visually impaired students : Deliver specialized instruction and interventions to students with visual impairments in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), focusing on skills like Braille, orientation and mobility, and assistive technology. Collaborate with educational teams : Work closely with teachers, administrators, and specialists to develop and implement strategies that support the academic and social progress of students with visual impairments. Maintain accurate records : Document all services, assessments, and interventions provided, ensuring compliance with IEP goals and state regulations. Participate in IEP meetings : Offer expertise in visual impairment accommodations, assistive technology, and instructional modifications to ensure students receive appropriate support. Engage in professional development : Stay current with best practices in visual impairment education, assistive technology, and special education by attending workshops and training sessions. Teacher of the
Visually Impaired Benefits:
Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance :
Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
Defined-Benefit Pension Plans:
As a local governmental agency, NIA employees who are eligible participate in either the Teachers' Retirement System of Illinois (TRS), providing a stable, defined-benefit pension that ensures financial security in retirement. Learn more about TRS at
Additional Retirement Savings Options:
NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave:
Based on the number of days worked.
Telemedicine:
Access to 1800MD telemedicine services at no cost.
Summer Work Opportunities:
Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay. Summers Off with
Year-Round Pay Expert Feedback and Evaluation :
Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise Ready Access to
Equipment and Testing Materials Ongoing Professional Development :
Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
Collaborative Environment :
Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues Regular 1:1
Check-Ins :
Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
Mission-Driven :
We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day. Leadership in
Education :
Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
Innovation :
We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
Employee-Focused :
We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
Teacher of Visually Impaired Qualifications:
Illinois State Board of Education Professional Educator's License (PEL) with TVI endorsement Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and specialized software applications like Microsoft Office and Google Suite. We are unable to sponsor work visas (H-1B, J-1, etc) or transfer sponsorship. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S without sponsorship now or in the future.