Brailist

• Job Summary The Braillist provides direct instructional assistance and specialized braille services for a student who is blind or visually impaired. This role involves transcribing classroom materials into braille, assisting with the use of assistive technology, and supporting the implementation of Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals. Key Responsibilities
• Transcription: Transcribe a wide variety of instructional materials, including textbooks, exams, worksheets, and teacher notes, into literary braille or other alternative formats like large print or tactile graphics.
• 1:1 Student Support: Provide direct assistance to an assigned student in the classroom, helping them complete assignments and understand new abstract concepts.
• Collaboration: Work closely with classroom teachers and the Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) to adapt instructional plans and ensure materials are ready in a timely manner.
• Assistive Technology: Support the student's use of specialized equipment such as braille writers, embossers, screen readers (like JAWS), and braille notetakers.
• Documentation: Maintain accurate records of student progress and material production while ensuring student confidentiality (HIPAA/FERPA compliance).
• Mobility Assistance: As needed, facilitate safe travel within the school environment and monitor the use of mobility tools like a long cane.

Qualifications

• & Requirements
• Certification: A Washington State Braille Certificate (or Library of Congress certification in Unified English Braille) is typically required.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent, plus meeting Washington state paraeducator requirements (e.g., an Associate degree, 72 college credits, or passing the ETS ParaPro Assessment with a score of 455+).
• Experience: Prior experience in braille transcription and working with children in a special education setting is highly preferred.
• Skills: Proficiency in braille translation software (e.g., Duxbury), strong attention to detail, and excellent English grammar and spelling.

Working Conditions • Setting

• Primarily performed in a standard elementary classroom environment.
• Physical
• Demands: Significant fine finger dexterity is required for brailling; may involve occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs), stooping, or kneeling.