Special Education Assistant - Visually Impaired

The Langley School District is situated on the traditional unceded territories of the Matsqui, Kwantlen, Katzie, and Semiahmoo First Nations. At Langley School District, we prioritize student success through a holistic approach to education, valuing both academic achievement and personal growth. Our dedicated team of educators, support staff, and administrators work collaboratively to create dynamic learning experiences that inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and creativity.

Joining our team means becoming part of a supportive community that celebrates diversity, innovation, and collaboration. Whether you're a seasoned educator or embarking on your journey in the field of education, Langley School District offers ample opportunities for professional growth and development.

An Education Assistant supporting blind and/or visually impaired students plays a vital role in facilitating their educational journey. They provide invaluable assistance by adapting classroom materials, such as textbooks and assignments, into accessible formats such as braille or large print. Additionally, they may assist with using specialized equipment or technology designed to aid in learning, such as screen readers or magnifiers.

Beyond academics, Education Assistants foster independence and confidence in visually impaired students, offering encouragement and practical assistance to help them thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Their dedication and adaptability create an inclusive learning environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

POSTING DETAILS

• Position - Special Education Assistant
• Focus - Supporting blind / visually impaired students
• Start Date - Sept 2, 2025
• Hours - Full time - 2 positions. 1 at Elementary and 1 at Secondary

PREFERRED INSTITUTES

We hire Special Education Assistants who have completed programs at the following institutions; however, we may consider candidates from other institutions if the applicant has additional SEA school-based experience (beyond a practicum).

• Delta’s DTAC Program
• Douglas College
• Kwantlen Polytechnic
• Langara College
• Ridge Meadows College
• Sprott Shaw College
• Stenberg College
• Surrey Community College

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Transcribes a variety of written material into Braille.
• Interprets Braille for the teacher(s).
• Transfers special format materials such as maps, graphs and diagrams into tactile form.
• Prepares materials in large print.
• Assists the student as needed in special skill areas such as Braille, Nemeth code, slate and stylus, abacus, orientation and mobility, concept development, organizational skills, and technology.
• Works directly with students as needed to support regular class activities which may be especially challenging due to a visual impairment (e.g. art, handwriting, gym, field trips, etc.).
• Implements and monitors behaviour management programs including observation, record keeping and follow-up.
• Maintains records related to student progress.
• Administers, scores and records results of tests.
• Assists students while integrating into regular classes and reports progress to the teacher(s).
• Marks students assignments using a key.
• Works with students one to one or in small groups to learn previously taught material through review, repetition, demonstration and drills.
• Assists with student supervision, which includes, but is not limited to, crosswalk supervision, when and where required
• Operates equipment such as duplicating equipment, computer, tape recorder, Braille, closed circuit T.V., Braille and speak computer.
• Performs other assigned comparable duties which are within the scope of knowledge, skills and abilities required by this class specification.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Grade 12 graduation and possession of a Special Education Teacher Assistant Certificate, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Grade II Braille Certificate or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Must be proficient in transcribing print materials into Braille format and Braille materials into print.
• Ability to be flexible to meet the varying academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students.
• Emergency First Aid Certificate (or Standard First Aid) including sufficient medical knowledge to effectively cope with seizures.
• Ability to interact with the students in an effective manner.
• Ability to communicate effectively using tact, discretion, and diplomacy in contacts of a difficult or specialized nature.
• Ability to determine, judge and select appropriate course of action within limits of established methods and procedures.
• Working knowledge of behaviour management techniques and task analysis techniques.
• Basic knowledge of computers.
• Physical ability to perform the required duties.
• Completion of the Provincial Outreach Program for Autism and Related Disorders (POPARD) training on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). These certifications are required for term and continuing positions.

For your application to be considered, all required documents must be included:

• Resume and cover letter
• Braille Certificate
• Certification as an EA / Letter of Completion (stating that you have met all graduation requirements of the program)
• Copy of your transcript (official or unofficial) from your EA program
• A report from your practicum (if completed within the last 2 years)
• Email addresses for a minimum of three references (ideally, supervisors from your most recent/relevant role/practicum)
• Proof of high school graduation (or completion of other post-secondary education)
• Valid/Current first aid certification (proof of registration for the course can serve as a placeholder for your application; however, you need to complete the course prior to beginning work in the district)
• ASD / ABA certifications from (for Term or Continuing positions)

For applicants who are in the process of completing their program, some of the above documents may be 'pending' at the time of submission; however, the application will still be considered. Please upload a blank document to meet the submission requirements of the platform to proceed with your application.

PLEASE NOTE

• In accordance with the Criminal Record Review Act, successful applicants will be required to consent to a Criminal Record Check prior to employment.
• We thank you for your interest in the Langley School District; however, only those persons selected for interviews will be contacted.

This job is classed under Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants (NOC 43100) in Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC). Here’s how NOC describes the work in general; the posting above has the details for this job.

Elementary and secondary school teacher assistants support students, and assist teachers and counsellors with teaching and non-instructional tasks. They assist in areas of personal care, teaching and behaviour management under the supervision of teachers or other child care professionals. They are employed in public and private elementary, secondary and special needs schools and treatment centres.

All jobs in this occupationFull NOC profile