Cane Travel Instructor Job Posting
For 30 years, Blindness: Learning In New Dimensions (BLIND, Inc.) has
provided small group instruction in the alternative techniques of blindness.
Our
programs are based on a positive attitude toward blindness and a belief in
the normality and competency of blind people. We know that with proper
training
and opportunity, blind people can live full, happy, and successful lives. We
work hard to create an environment that promotes active learning and
collegiality
where adult students can empower themselves and exceed their expectations.
We are one of three training centers rooted in the philosophy of the
National
Federation of the Blind, and are located just blocks south of downtown
Minneapolis.
Successful applicants will be skilled in teaching and versed in the skills
of cane travel, sometimes referred to as orientation and mobility, and
should
believe in the capabilities of blind people. Successful applicants should be
passionate about teaching, excited by new challenges, and interested in
working
as part of a small but energetic team.
Instructors undergo staff training in order to ensure that they are fully
competent to teach in their subject areas, understand the experiences of
students
in training, and build a solid foundation in the beliefs of blind people.
Therefore, we are willing to work with sighted applicants who have a solid
background
in specific areas, and are willing to learn and practice nonvisual skills
using a blindfold. Please read on to see what fields are preferred.
Both staff and student instruction are performed non-visually, with students
who have any degree of remaining sight wearing blindfolds (sleepshades).
Duties and Responsibilities:
list of 7 items
1. Provide individualized instruction in nonvisual alternative techniques to
blind adults in all areas of cane travel using the Structured Discovery
approach,
including but not limited to:
list of 6 items nesting level 1
. Basic cane travel techniques indoors and outdoors,
. Analyzing and crossing streets,
. Mental mapping and route planning,
. Use of GPS and Smartphone applications,
. Use of other mobility devices such as support canes and wheelchairs and
. Travel in all weather conditions,
list end nesting level 1
2. Develop individualized lesson plans while working within the curriculum,
and update it as needed.
3. Maintain daily attendance records and write comprehensive monthly reports
on each student describing progress made and goals for the next month.
4. Participate and assist in all center confidence building activities,
including white water rafting, dogsledding, camping and other challenge
recreation
activities. Some activities are off-site and require overnight travel.
5. Promote the organization's progressive philosophy of blindness and
positive attitudes to students, co-workers and others, and provide support
and guidance
to students throughout their program.
6. Serve as a representative at community events as assigned by management.
7. Other duties as assigned.
list end
Requirements:
list of 6 items
. Advanced skills in the area of cane travel using the Structured Discovery
model,
. Willingness to undergo and successfully complete a period of paid staff
blindfold training in order to learn or further develop alternative skills
of
blindness,
. Ability to plan, organize and develop lessons,
. Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to work as
part of a team,
. Be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office and Google Suites and,
. Ability to work with a variety of students, including those with multiple
disabilities, ethnic background, or negative attitude.
list end
Preferred Qualifications:
list of 3 items
. National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) holder, or within 3
months of sitting for certification,
. Experience working with the blind in an instructional setting using the
structured discovery teaching model, or
. College degree - Preference to candidates with field of study in a field
of blindness.
list end
Position Benefits:
list of 6 items
. Medical benefits,
. Employer-contributed 403B retirement program,
. Greater Minneapolis monthly transit pass,
. paid attendance (including transportation, lodging and stipend) at
National Federation of the Blind, state and/or national conventions,
. Paid holiday leave totaling 19 days annually on average
. Accrued additional paid leave based on hours worked.
list end
Interested applicants should submit a resume, cover letter, and contact
information for 3 professional references, to Jennifer Kennedy, Executive
Director,
at
jkennedy at blindinc.org