Job Description

Posting number: 2026-07877

Department: School for the Blind

Job classification: TEACHER OF THE BLIND

Posting type: Open & Promotional

Categories: Education, Education, Training & Library, Teacher

Summary

Persons with a disability requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact HR@wssb.wa.gov. Those with hearing impairment in need of accommodation are encouraged to contact the Washington Relay Service at 1-800-676-3777 or www.washingtonrelay.com.

(Logo: Silhouette of Washington State with a lighthouse icon pointing to Vancouver)

The core purpose of the Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) is to empower blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. We believe in a future where every blind and low vision student in Washington has the supports and services they need to succeed. Our programs and services are provided across a diverse continuum of service options; including a range of short and long-term programs that include residential options at our Vancouver campus, outreach services in local schools and communities, access to specialized technology and resources through our Ogden Resource Center, as well as training options for parents, educators, and related service providers through a combination of department efforts. Our greatest resource at WSSB is our incredible staff. Our valued employees are continuously encouraged to improve the ways that we provide service to our students and the community. WSSB’s core values are being student-centered, equity, accessibility, relationships, and continuous improvement.

Examples of duties

The Substitute Teacher positions require certified teachers who can be available in the event of a teacher absence. Having your name placed on the substitute list gives no condition for guaranteed hours, nor any guarantee of employment. These positions report directly to the Director of On-Campus Programs, providing educational instruction to blind and visually impaired children. The successful candidate will work in conjunction with other WSSB staff to provide educational services to students on campus. These may include but aren't limited to:

• Academics
• Assistive Technology
• Braille
• Use of low vision devices
• Self-help skills
• Daily Living Skills

Qualifications

• Holds a valid Washington State Teaching Certificate or Emergency Substitute Certificate or is eligible to obtain one.
• Demonstrates leadership ability and problem solving to manage classrooms; maintains positive learning environments by demonstrating empathy, active listening skills, and openness; and is able to effectively follow directions including sub lesson plans.
• Displays strong communication, adaptability, and interpersonal skills when working with students, staff, and administrators.
• Must pass state and federal criminal background check.
• Shows a commitment and ability to learning, flexibility, growing, and supporting the educational needs of all students.
• The ability to learn and grow and take action to meet the needs of others.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience working with the blind, visually impaired, and/or children with special needs; and,
• Classroom teaching experience.

Supplemental information

WSSB offers employees a student-focused and mission-driven environment that empowers blind and low vision individuals to reach their full potential. Our beautiful 13.2 acre campus is on the National Register of Historic Places and not only includes state-of-the-art classrooms but a fitness center with saline pool and floor-to-ceiling rock climbing wall, track & field, auditorium, braille center, low vision clinic, LIFTT program offering dorm-style housing and much more!

Note: This recruitment can be used for multiple positions and shifts. Salary is in accordance with the Vancouver School District 2025/2026 pay scale or $196 - full day (4 hours or more), $112 - half day (under 4 hours). Substitute staff are not eligible for the benefits listed in the Benefits tab of Neogov. However, all substitutes are eligible for the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Holidays are paid in accordance with WAC 357-31-010. Personal days and sick time are paid in accordance with WAC 357-31-055 and WAC 357-31-115. Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are unable to respond to requests regarding the status of your application. For a status report, you may login to governmentjobs to obtain information on your application status. This position will remain open until filled. The hiring manager reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time so apply early for the best consideration.

How to apply: Applicants must complete the online application. This includes accurate education and all employment history (applications that state "see my resume" or similar language on the application may be considered incomplete). Three professional references, including at least one supervisor, with current contact information is also necessary. This information may be verified. Attachments are not accepted and will not be opened. If you wish to supplement your application with a cover letter, resume, letters of recommendation, transcripts or documents of a similar nature, you may bring extra copies with you to a scheduled interview with personally identifiable information (such as social, date of birth, photos, graduation dates, etc.) blacked out. Please do not include salary history with your application. Should you have any questions regarding the online application, please email kristina.bader@wssb.wa.gov.

Union Inclusion: This position is included in a bargaining unit represented by the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).

Opportunity for All: The Washington State School for the Blind celebrates our differences and we are committed to a workplace that supports equal opportunity employment and inclusion in accordance with state and Federal laws regardless of religion, race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex including sexual orientation and gender identity diversity, age, status as a protected veteran, honorably discharged veteran or military status, status as an individual with the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with disabilities or other applicable legally protected characteristics. Background inquiries of convictions and pending criminal charges will be conducted for all positions. Background checks shall be completed on applicants prior to their appointment to positions in the state of Washington which are directly responsible for the supervision, care or treatment of children. Information obtained from background inquiries will not necessarily preclude employment, but will be considered in determining the applicant's character, suitability, and competence to perform in the position applied for and may result in the denial of employment. Applicants are required to sign a release authorizing inquiry, and a background check will be conducted at the applicants' expense after a conditional offer of employment has been made. Failure to complete the authorization and background check shall disqualify the applicant from employment in these positions.

Veterans Preference: Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, or other verification of military service. Please blackout any personally identifiable data such as social security number. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Additional Information: The state of Washington is an equal opportunity employer. Persons with a disability who need assistance with the application process, may call (360) 696-6321 and ask to speak to Human Resources or email hr@wssb.wa.gov. Should you have any questions regarding this position, or the online application, please email Kristina.Bader@wssb.wa.gov.