Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Job Details

The Durham District School Board acknowledges that many Indigenous Nations have longstanding relationships, both historic and modern, with the territories upon which our school board and schools are located. Today, this area is home to many Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. We acknowledge that the Durham Region forms a part of the traditional and treaty territory of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, the Mississauga Peoples and the treaty territory of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. It is on these ancestral and treaty lands that we teach, live and learn.

This statement was co-created in partnership with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island.

Reporting to the Superintendent of Equitable Education - Inclusive Student Services or designate, the Orientation and Mobility Specialist supports the Durham District School Board in promoting student independence and accessibility for learners who are blind or visually impaired. The incumbent provides specialized instruction to develop safe and independent travel skills within school and community environments. This includes instruction in orientation techniques, spatial awareness, guide dogs and the use of mobility tools such as white canes, sighted guide techniques, and electronic travel aids.

The Orientation and Mobility Specialist collaborates with school teams, families, and community partners to support student success through accessible and inclusive practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide individualized (1:1) orientation and mobility instruction to students with visual impairments, including students with multiple exceptionalities, within school and community settings.
• Teach pre-cane/adapted cane skills, white cane techniques, sighted guide methods, and spatial and sensory awareness skills.
• Provide instruction in the use of electronic travel aids and other adaptive mobility equipment.
• Consult and collaborate with Principals/Vice-Principals, Teachers, Educational Assistants, parents/guardians, and external agencies regarding accessibility and mobility needs of students.
• Monitor, document, and report on student progress, maintaining accurate and confidential records.
• Adapt and transpose instructional materials into accessible formats including braille, tactile graphics (e.g., raised-line maps and diagrams), and enlarged print.
• Participate as part of a multidisciplinary team to support student programming and transitions.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education

• Master's degree in Orientation and Mobility; or
• Completion of post-graduate studies in Orientation and Mobility from a recognized program such as:
• University of British Columbia - Certificate in Orientation & Mobility
• Mohawk College - Instructor for the Blind and Visually Impaired Program
• University of Montreal - Diploma in Specialized Studies (Orientation & Mobility and Vision Rehabilitation)
• Current certification with the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AERBVI) is considered an asset.
• University of Pittsburgh :Orientation and Mobility Specialist - Certificate and Med
• University of Western Michigan:Graduate Certificate in Orientation and Mobility

Experience

• Experience providing orientation and mobility instruction to individuals with visual impairments, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience working with school-aged students across a range of developmental levels within a school setting is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience working collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Working knowledge of braille; braille certification is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and sensitively with students, families, staff, and community partners.
• Strong organizational, documentation, and time-management skills.
• Demonstrated understanding of confidentiality and privacy requirements within an educational setting.
• Valid driver's license, access to a reliable vehicle, and appropriate insurance for travel between sites.

Additional Requirements

• A satisfactory Police Record Check (Vulnerable Sector) is a condition of employment.

Equity and Inclusion

The Durham District School Board recognizes Indigenous rights are distinct. In the exercise of those rights, Indigenous staff and students shall not be subjected to actions with the aim or effect of depriving these distinct rights.

The DDSB is dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve and encourage applications from candidates who bring a variety of experiences and backgrounds. We adhere to fair, transparent hiring practices and are committed to equity and accessibility throughout the recruitment process. If you need accommodation during the application process, please let us know, and we will work with you to meet your needs.

Ignite Your Career

At the Durham District School Board (DDSB), we inspire the lives of over 80,000 students. Our diverse communities are places where your impact will be felt every day.

Picture yourself in a workplace where your ideas are celebrated, and your growth is a top priority. Here, collaboration and innovation thrive. Whether you're directly inspiring young minds or providing essential support behind the scenes, your contributions will have a meaningful impact on students and the community.

We welcome you to bring your experiences, your passions, and your talents to our inclusive community. Join us and be part of a team that values your well-being as much as your contributions. Ignite your potential at DDSB and help us make a difference, one student at a time.

#DDSBISHIRING