Description
THE ORGANIZATION: VANCOUVER SCHOOL BOARD (SCHOOL DISTRICT 39)
With deep gratitude and respect, we are honoured to be learning and unlearning on the ancestral and unceded lands of the x?m?θk??y??m (Musqueam), S?wx_wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish) Nation, and s?lilw?ta? (Tsleil-Waututh) Nation.
At the VSB, we are proud to provide exceptional learning experiences for students. As a large, urban school district, the VSB is one of Canada’s most diverse school systems and equity and inclusivity are at the forefront of our approach to education.
Throughout the District, more than 7,700 staff work to create learning environments where every student thrives by prioritizing students’ needs, applying evidence-informed practices, and building relationships. The VSB’s culture reflects the diversity of our city. Students enrolled in VSB come from varied backgrounds and lived experiences and are encouraged to explore and share their unique selves and gifts. Our commitment to students goes beyond academics with students’ overall well-being and sense of belonging being equally important. As an organization, we strive to build a school system where every student can be their authentic self and succeed throughout their learning journey. In doing this work, we champion equity and accountability by making evidence-based decisions. As a learning organization, humility is our guidepost as we work to continually improve student outcomes in service to them, their families, and the broader community. For more information about our school district, visit https://www.vsb.bc.ca/.
THE OPPORTUNITY: EDUCATION ASSISTANT FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED
(SCHOOL & STUDENT SUPPORT A)
In this position, you will:
Under the direction of a senior member of the team, contribute to the development and implement individual programs and contracts for students who are unable to function in a regular classroom setting
Evaluate and maintain records of student progress; discuss with team members any changes which may be made to an individual student's program
Organize and participate in a wide variety of field trips, sports, social, recreational and craft activities
Support students in community-based programming such as work experience, travel training, and relevant community outings
Provide support to students with respect to their social and emotional problems
Supervise students, as required, and deal with disciplinary problems as they occur
Prepare instructional aid materials; set up and operate instructional aid equipment using Office 365 and learning technology; scan and covert PDF or paper documents into e-text, modify tables into linear format and input material into braille software to emboss
Create tactile materials and adapt curriculum as required
Provide school & student support to assist the school as assigned
Perform other work within the job band as assigned
QUALIFICATIONS
Completion of Grade 12 and successful completion of Special Education Assistant program or related field and over two (2) months of experience OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
Experience supporting students with visual impairment and knowledge of the basic principles of Unified English Braille code is preferred.
Formal training in childcare/child development, behaviour management, and/or social sciences.
Related experience working with students who are mentally/emotionally and/or physically challenged.
Sound knowledge of the issues and needs in educating students with intellectual, behavioural and/or physical challenges.
Sound knowledge of educational/developmental psychology and behaviour management.
Ability to effectively assist educators in behaviour management, individual skill development and the integration process.
Ability to provide personal assistance to meet students’ requirements.
Ability to lift and position students of varying weights required.
Knowledge of braille software (e.g.:Duxbury or BrailleBlaster) and experience using an iPAD with VoiceOver & Brailliant an asset.
Must possess or be willing to obtain an Occupational First Aid (OFA) certificate and will be required to perform Occupational First Aid if assigned by the Supervisor. OFA attendants may, at the direction of Employee Services, be required to perform emergency coverage at other locations.
Must be willing to obtain braille training.
COMPENSATION
The salary for this position is $32.62/hour (6.5 hours/day) plus a comprehensive benefits package, including Municipal Pension Plan, Vancouver Employee Savings Plan, Extended Health, Dental, Group Life, Long Term Disability, Vacation, & Gratuity Days. Working months are September to June each year.
TO APPLY
Create a profile on Make a Future
Click "Apply Now" under ECE, EA and Support Staff positions
Upload all supporting documents. Your application must include a cover letter, resume and your last 3 direct supervisors/managers as references.
Answer the job posting questions
Once your application has been submitted you will receive a confirmation email.
This posting is ongoing until filled. Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified for an interview.
The VSB has been given approval from the Human Rights Tribunal for a Special Program under s. 42(3) of the Human Rights Code. Under this special program, the VSB seeks to preferentially hire Aboriginal persons to a variety of teaching positions. Therefore, each applicant may wish to provide, on a voluntary basis, information whether they self-identify as an Aboriginal person.
