Teacher

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.

The Teacher of the Visually Impaired works 182 days per year for 7 hours per day and earns, $52,359 - $105,868 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.

Quality of Life : Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes

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.

Compensation details: 68 Yearly Salary

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