Worcester Public Schools Worcester , MA 01601
Posted 3 weeks ago
SUBJECT: Assistive Technology Specialist
REPORTS TO: Assistant Director of Special Education
ACCOUNTABILITY OBJECTIVE:
The mission of the Assistive Technology (AT) Center is to promote teaching and learning for all children with the assistance of specialized technology and adaptive equipment. The AT team provides specialized technology and training opportunities for teachers to create an enriched learning environment, enabling students to meet the WPS learning standards through universal access techniques while promoting student independence and success. Federal Special Education Laws: PL 100-407 Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 and PL 101-476 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1991 defines Assistive and Instructional Technology Devices as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of children with disabilities."
Assistive Technology Services are defined as "any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device" including:
i. Augmentative and Alternative Communication
ii. Environmental Controls
iii. Adaptive Computer Access
iv. Visual Aids
v. Assistive Listening
vi. Mobility
vii. Positioning and Seating
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITES:
1.Responsible for assessment and diagnosis of students referred for consideration in the use of Assistive Technology (AT) supports. Prepare written report upon completion of assessment and attend Team meetings to present findings.
2.Responsible for collaboration with parents, teachers, SLP, OT, PT, Vision Specialist, and any auxiliary staff regarding recommendations and implementation of AT supports.
3.Responsible for locating resources and ordering AT/AAC devices, software, and other supports as delineated in the students IEP.
4.Responsible for providing training to staff, students and parents in the use of recommended AT supports.
5.Responsible for maintaining a direct database of all AT supports and student files.
6.Responsible for establishing an effective liaison with parents, school staff and agencies within the community (when necessary) that may provide professional or specialized help to students.
7.Responsible for collaborating with the district technology department and attending departmental meetings as necessary.
8.Responsible for assuring equal educational opportunity to all individuals regardless of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, disability or homelessness.
9.Performance of other job-related duties as assigned.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1.Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in: Special Education, Speech and Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy or a related field.
2.Minimum of 1 year experience working with school-age children in the field of Assistive Technology.
3.Maintain current license
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
1.Demonstrated experience supporting students with special needs
2.Ability to speak Albanian, Arabic, Nepali, Portuguese, Spanish, Vietnamese or an African Language.
3.Master's Degree with a concentration in Assistive Technology and/ or certificate in Assistive Technology.
TO APPLY: Any person interested in this position must submit a resume, cover letter, licensure, and answer all questions on-line at https://worcesterschools.org/about/employment-opportunities
This deadline date does not preclude further advertisement or recruitment
Worcester Public Schools