The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) is a critical part of Michigan’s education system serving the Greater Kalamazoo region and provides specialized services to schools and communities and optimizes resources by centralizing innovative programs and services. We partner with school districts and the broader community to offer essential programs including early childhood education, special education, career learning, and educator development, ensuring that learners of all ages receive the support they need.

We are currently seeking a Teacher Consultant of the Visually Impaired at KRESA in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The essential responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:

Align services with KRESA Core Values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity) and Culture & Belonging principles to engage and serve all students
Provide specialized direct instruction, consultative support, and functional evaluations for students who are blind or have low vision (BLV), ranging in age from birth to 26.
Develop and implement individualized education plans (IEPs) that address the specific learning goals of each student.
Provide direct instruction in adaptive skills, including orientation and mobility, daily living skills, and assistive technology.
Collaborate with classroom teachers to adapt curriculum and teaching strategies to meet the needs of students with low vision or blindness.
Maintains communication with local districts and KRESA staff regarding assigned students.
Train classroom staff and related service providers (such as Occupational and Physical Therapists) on accommodating students who are blind or have low vision.
Conduct workshops and training sessions for educators and support staff on effective teaching strategies and accommodations for students.
Advocate for the needs of students with visual impairments within the school and the broader community.
Monitor student progress and adjust instructional methods as needed to ensure optimal learning outcomes.
Maintain accurate records of student assessments, progress, and communications with parents and other stakeholders.
Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices and advancements in the field of blind low vision.
Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that promotes independence and self-advocacy among students.
Regular and consistent attendance
Other duties as assigned

Qualified candidates will have Bachelor’s degree in Education, Special Education, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred. Dual certification in Orientation & Mobility (O & M) is preferred. Proficiency in reading/writing Unified English Braille and familiarity with assistive technology tools. Certification in Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) or equivalent licensure or ability to obtain certification.

KRESA is committed to supporting motivated candidates in growing into a TCVI or VI Teacher role. Candidates who do not yet hold the required certification may be eligible for support in pursuing the appropriate certification pathway while gaining valuable experience serving students who are blind or have low vision.

Other skills and abilities include:

Embraces and supports KRESA philosophies related to our core values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity), Culture & Belonging, and Continuous Improvement
Embraces and supports KRESA’s vision of a transformative, equitable and innovative education for all in the Greater Kalamazoo region
Ability to interact effectively with individuals from a wide range of identities and lived experiences
Ability to discuss differences with colleagues and clients in a manner that supports building positive working relationships
Adapts to frequent changes in the work environment
Ability to resolve problems
Strong knowledge of assistive technology and adaptive strategies for teaching students with low vision or blindness.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with students, parents, and staff.
Ability to develop and implement creative instructional strategies tailored to individual student needs.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in record-keeping and reporting.
Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development and training.
Ability to work flexible hours as needed to support student and family needs.
Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets student's attention, and which encourages their engagement
Maintains confidentiality
Embraces a teamwork attitude

This is a 10-month calendar position in job grade 17 with an annual rate of pay between $48,490 and $102,353.

KRESA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefit offering that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits through Michigan’s Office of Retirement Services, tuition reimbursement, student loan forgiveness and wellness incentives – all within a supportive and caring culture centered around our values of collaboration, innovation, compassion, integrity, and respect.

A Great Place to Live and Work

Kalamazoo was recently recognized as a great place to live in the 2024 50 Best Places to Live roundup by Money.com. Kalamazoo was noted for its abundant family-friendly activities and appreciation for artisan-crafted goods, as well as the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship for each Kalamazoo Public School resident graduate that provides up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education.

Notice of Non-discrimination: It is the policy of Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency that no discriminating practices based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or sexual identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category be allowed during any program, activity, service or in employment. The following position at Kalamazoo RESA has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy: Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Contact information: 269-250-9200, 1819 E. Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49002.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.