Job Description

*Assistive Technology & Augmentative Communication Specialist

Annapolis Valley Regional Centre for Education
Assistive Technology & Augmentative Communication Specialist 1.00 FTE Vacant
Available to Permanent, Assumed Permanent and Surplus Teachers of the AVRCE
Terms and conditions of employment, including wages, are in accordance with the Nova Scotia Teachers' Provincial Agreement
Closing Date: Midnight, May 25th, 2023
RESPONSIBLE TO: Coordinator of Student Services
ROLE: The Assistive Technology and Augmentative Communication Specialist is the professional who supports students with disabilities and communication disorders through direct service and program development, within the student planning process. Through the provision of specialized knowledge and skills the AT and Augmentative Communication Specialists assists in identifying alternative methods of communication and learning for students with severe communication challenges and disabilities. This person supports the school team in implementing recommendations that involve Assistive Technology, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems.
Responsibilities:

• The responsibilities which are listed below provide an outline of the major responsibilities that the Assistive Technology/Augmentative Communication Lead would assume.

• Follow guidelines set by EECD and RCEs/CSAP regarding Inclusive Education, communication, direct support, professional development, etc.
• Work with teachers and school teams with Universal Design for Learning strategies and practices to include all learners aligning with Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).
• Provide professional support as part of a school?s Teaching Support Team.
• Provide professional support as part of an individual Student Planning Team.
• Support school teams to determine if and ensure that students have the necessary Accessible Educational Materials (AEM), Assistive/Accessible Technology and/or Augmentative Communication to engage in and access learning.
• Assist teachers and team members in selecting and adapting teaching strategies and resources to meet the needs of students who require and use Assistive Technology and/or Augmentative Communication.
• If able, develop ?how to? videos, webinars, hard-copy step-by-step instructions/directions on how to develop and utilize AEM. AT and/or AC.
• Provide direct ongoing support for referrals, assessments, programming, training, etc. to students, teachers/school teams, and/or families of Assistive/Accessible Technology or Augmentative Communication users.
• Engage in professional learning opportunities. For those who are able, consider offering/facilitating training for families, students, team members, etc.
• Review pre-existing ?caseload" and prioritize to connect and communicate with teachers and school teams to ensure that, as much as possible, Assistive Technology supports, resources and interventions can continue throughout this transition.
• Continue with related documentation and TIENET updates as needed.

• Provide professional support and guidance to AT Support Staff.

• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• A valid certificate as required by the Nova Scotia Department of Education.
• Masters Degree in Human Communication Disorders or acceptable Masters equivalent.
• Five (5) years experience working in a setting directly related to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
• Minimum five (5) years experience working with students with developmenal, physical, sensory and learning disabilities.