Job Description

Posting number: 2026-06705

Department: School for the Blind

Job classification: TEACHER OF THE BLIND

Posting type: Open

Categories: Education, Education, Training & Library, Teacher

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)

* This posting will be open for a minimum of 7 days but will close once filled. You are encouraged to apply early for best consideration. *

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.

We are seeking a passionate Teacher of Blind and Low Vision Learners – Classroom Teacher for the 2026-27 school year to deliver engaging, specially designed instruction aligned with Washington State learning standards, IEP goals, and each student's individual access needs. The ideal candidate builds strong access to core academic content through specially designed instruction, embedded Expanded Core Curriculum skills, and assistive technology, while advocating for students throughout the IEP process. Be part of a mission-driven school that values high expectations, accessibility, and student success.

The Teacher of Blind and Low Vision Learners (TBLVL) – Classroom Teacher will provide direct, specially designed instruction in math, reading, writing, and other core content areas to middle and high school students who are blind or have low vision, ensuring access to the general education curriculum. This position embeds instruction in the Expanded Core Curriculum, assistive technology, and braille and other accessible learning modes within core content instruction, and serves as an advocate and contributing member of students' IEP teams.

In addition to instructing students, the classroom teacher collaborates with other teachers, paraeducators, families, related service providers, and support staff to ensure students' access needs are met across the school day. Classroom teachers provide instruction aligned to the Danielson Framework for Teaching, which includes four domains: planning and preparation, leaning environments, learning experiences, and principled teaching. The Classroom Teacher works under the guidance of state and federal regulations, OSPI guidelines, agency policies and procedures, and applicable collective bargaining agreements. This position reports to the Director of On-Campus Programs.

Examples of duties

Duties include but are not limited to the following...

• Specially Designed Instruction & Curriculum Access: Plan, deliver, and monitor direct, specially designed instruction in math, reading, writing, and other core content areas, aligned to state standards, grade-level curriculum, and individual IEP goals. Adapt and convert curriculum and materials into accessible formats, implement evidence-based instructional strategies and interventions, and adjust instruction based on progress-monitoring data.
• Expanded Core Curriculum & Assistive Technology: Provide embedded instruction in the Expanded Core Curriculum tied to core subject areas, alongside specialized instruction addressing individual disability-specific needs. Provide direct, effective instruction in assistive technology (e.g., screen readers, braille displays/notetakers, magnification software, optical character recognition), and support students' use of braille and other accessible learning modes consistent with each student's Learning Media Assessment.
• Safe & Responsive Learning Environment: Plan and deliver small-group instruction using evidence-based engagement practices; create and maintain a safe, organized classroom environment conducive to learning; proactively manage student behavior; and participate in state and school testing requirements, including administering accessible test formats and accommodations.
• IEP Advocacy & Progress Monitoring: Serve as an advocate and contributing member of the IEP team in developing and monitoring IEPs for the caseload of students. Collect and analyze progress data, write and distribute progress reports, ensure compliance with IDEA and district timelines, and contribute to IEP meetings, reevaluations, and transition planning.
• Collaboration & Paraeducator Support: Collaborate with teachers to co-plan instruction, outcomes, and embed accommodations that support access to the effective growth for students. Direct, train, and supervise paraeducators supporting students in the classroom, and collaborate with school staff and families on strategies to support student behavior and classroom goals.
• Professional Learning & Compliance: Participate in staff meetings, planning events, and grade-level/department/PLC/job-alike meetings. Engage in ongoing professional development related to specially designed instruction, braille and low vision pedagogy, assistive technology, and special education compliance. Maintain accurate, complete, and confidential student records in accordance with agency policy, OSPI guidelines, and state/federal law.

Qualifications

Required Education, Experience, and Competencies

• Requires completion of a Bachelor’s Degree and valid Washington State teaching certificate in applicable content areas of instruction.
• Must pass the Washington UEB Braille exam or equivalent requirement set forth by the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB).
• Must be flexible, exhibit a commitment to accomplishment, possess outstanding communication and conceptual skills, demonstrate appropriate and positive student relationships, possess a strong professional orientation, and be willing to actively participate in a team environment.

• Sets appropriate expectations for individual students.
• Must have regular, consistent attendance.
• Demonstrated knowledge of curriculum integration and a commitment to improve and refine instructional and management skills by participating in professional development.
• Demonstrated knowledge of technology and an ability to incorporate into instructional programs.
• Demonstrated compatibility with staff, program, and school goals.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering a positive attitude with students and adults (staff and parents).
• Demonstrated awareness, appreciation, and respect of diversity among students and adults.

Preferred/Desired Education, Training and/or Competencies

• Endorsement in Teacher of Blind and Low Vision Students from OSPI

• Experience directing, training, or supervising paraeducators in a classroom setting.
• Experience working blind and low vision students including students with multiple disabilities.

Supplemental information

The annual salary for this position is paid in accordance with the Vancouver School District Salary Schedule (Download PDF reader) for 180 days per school year with days distributed year-round. Note The VSD salary schedule is reviewed annually and is under consideration for the 2026-27 school year with wage increases possible effective 09/01/2026. Teachers are not eligible for the vacation or holidays listed in the Benefits tab.

WSSB offers an employee and student-focused, 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!

Supplemental Information

How to apply: Applicants must complete the online application including accurate education and all employment history (applications that state "see my resume" or similar language on the application will be considered incomplete). Three professional references, including at least one supervisor, with current contact information are also required. This information will 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. Should you have any questions regarding the online application, please email HR@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 regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, citizenship or immigration status, marital status, families with children (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sex, sexual orientation, 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. We will also consider qualified applicants with criminal history, consistent with applicable federal, state and local laws (please see note below). You are welcome to include the name and pronoun you would like to be referred to in your materials, and we will honor this as you interact with our organization.

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 contact Human Resources at (360) 696-6321 or hr@wssb.wa.gov The same contact information should be used for questions regarding this position or the online application.

NOTE: Background inquiries of convictions and pending criminal charges 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 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. Failure to do so shall disqualify the applicant from employment in these positions.