ISD 728·Elk River, Minnesota
The BVI Accessibility Teaching Assistant will transcribe classroom materials into accessible formats like Braille and tactile graphics while providing direct support to students with visual impairments. They will also manage specialized assistive technology and collaborate with teachers to implement environmental accommodations.
ISD 728 is seeking a dedicated and compassionate BVI Paraprofessional to join our elementary teams for the 2026-2027 school year. In this role, you will work closely with Special Education Teachers to support the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional growth of students with diverse learning needs. The ideal candidate is patient, adaptable, and passionate about helping every student reach their full potential in a safe and inclusive environment.
Empower Access | Create Inclusive Learning | Enable Student Independence Are you a skilled accessibility specialist or dedicated educational assistant passionate about removing visual barriers to learning? As our BVI Accessibility Teaching Assistant, you will work under the direction and supervision of the Teacher for the Visually Impaired to transcribe materials, adapt learning environments, and provide direct support to students who are blind or low vision. In this vital role, your craftsmanship in creating Braille, tactile graphics, and accessible digital media directly empowers students to fully participate in their education alongside their peers.
Starting pay of $23.04 per hour (with additional pay and benefit details defined in the master agreement).
What You'll Do 1.
Tactile & Accessible Material Production Transcribe classroom materials—including textbooks, workbooks, testing items, worksheets, and charts—into accessible tactile, auditory, large print, and Braille formats (using UEB guidelines).
Design and create tactile graphics, maps, and diagrams using specialized transcription techniques and tools.
Manage production schedules to ensure all adapted materials are prepared and delivered to classroom teachers prior to instructional time.
2.
Direct Student Support & Accommodations Work with individual students or small groups in accordance with instructional plans developed by the TVI and IEP/IFSP teams.
Assist classroom teachers in implementing environmental accommodations, physical seating modifications, and supplemental services.
Keep TVIs, Orientation & Mobility (O&M) specialists, and general education teachers informed of student progress, emerging needs, or daily challenges.
3.
Assistive Technology & Inventory Management Manage, order, maintain, and troubleshoot specialized equipment, devices, and software used by visually impaired students and staff.
Provide basic technical assistance and orientation to classroom teachers, support staff, and substitute teachers on student devices and accommodations.
Maintain accurate inventory records of district BVI equipment, adapted books, and transcription files.
4.
Collaboration & Professional Compliance Maintain strict confidentiality of student records in compliance with FERPA and district policy.
Participate in BVI department meetings, district trainings, and ongoing professional development related to Braille and accessibility tools.
Perform other job-related duties as assigned by program leadership.
What You Bring Education & Experience High School Diploma or GED required (Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred).
3 to 5 years of experience working with Braille, Orientation & Mobility (O&M), or supporting students with visual impairments.
Certifications & Training Requirements Completion of or current enrollment in a recognized BVI program.
Completed or currently enrolled in UEB Online: Literacy Module 1.
Completed or currently enrolled in the National Library Service (NLS) UEB Braille Certification Program.
Active commitment to participating in ongoing professional development to refine tactile graphic and Braille transcription skills.
Core Skills & Abilities Strong technical fluency with computers, digital media, and specialized assistive technologies.
Outstanding organizational abilities and time management to meet strict material production deadlines.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to follow complex directions with high precision while also exercising sound independent judgment when needed.
Must have reliable transportation and a willingness to travel between school buildings throughout the district as assigned.
Candidates must have a high school diploma or GED and 3 to 5 years of experience working with Braille or students with visual impairments. Completion of or enrollment in recognized BVI programs and UEB Braille certification is required.
Market context
In Minnesota, teaching assistant openings are commonly driven by school staffing needs and student support demands, especially for candidates who can meet state or accreditation education and experience requirements. These roles can be competitive because schools look for dependable, energetic people who can actively support children indoors and outdoors while handling physical activity. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your credentials and highlight child-focused experience in your application.