Teacher Consultant for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
Job Summary:
The Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) is seeking a collaborative and knowledgeable Teacher Consultant for Students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing (TC-DHH) to join our Low Incidence Services Team. This position reflects OAISD’s commitment to a capacity-building model that prioritizes strengthening the skills of local district IEP teams, staff, and families to support students who are DHH.
While this role may include limited direct student services, when necessary, the primary responsibility is to provide consultation, coaching, and professional learning to empower IEP teams in delivering effective, individualized supports to students.
Essential Job Functions:
- Capacity Building with IEP Teams
- Provide consultation, coaching, and modeling to general education teachers, special educators, paraprofessionals, and related service providers to increase their ability to implement evidence-based instructional and access strategies for students who are DHH.
- Collaborate with IEP teams to develop, implement, and evaluate IEPs, including goals, accommodations, supplementary aids, and service delivery models.
- Support IEP teams in monitoring the educational impact of hearing loss and making data-based decisions to ensure access to FAPE in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
- Consultation and Collaboration
- Serve as a resource for administrators, staff, and families on the characteristics of hearing loss and its educational implications.
- Partner with Educational Audiologists and other related service providers to ensure appropriate use, care, and maintenance of hearing assistive technology.
- Participate in professional learning communities and share current resources, research, and strategies with district staff.
- Direct Student Support (as needed)
- Provide short-term or targeted direct services to students for assessment, modeling, or intervention when required to support district capacity.
- Conduct observations and informal assessments to help IEP teams evaluate access, communication, and functional listening skills.
- Support students in developing independence, advocacy skills, and strategies for accessing instruction and participation alongside their peers.
- Professional Learning
- Design and deliver professional development for district staff and families focused on evidence-based practices, hearing technology, communication strategies, and accessibility tools.
- Provide resources and training to build district capacity for the long-term sustainability of DHH supports.
Education and Experience:
This rewarding position offers two pathways for professionals entering the field:- Fully Approved Teacher Consultant for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing: Applicants must hold a special education certification (preferably in Hearing Impairment), a master's degree in special education or a related field, and at least three years of teaching experience.
- Deaf and Hard of Hearing Teacher Specialist: This option is for candidates who are willing to work toward full Teacher Consultant approval for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, either actively pursuing or planning to pursue the necessary certification.
Required Skills and Abilities: - Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills including proficiency in basic computer skills and web-based applications.
- Deep working knowledge of other adaptive equipment required.
- Possess the skills and desire to work in a collaborative team with others.
Physical Requirements: - Ability to travel between school sites within the district/region.
- Ability to sit, stand, and engage with students in classroom environments.
- Must be able to communicate effectively in spoken and/or signed language depending on student needs.
- Occasional lifting of equipment or instructional materials (up to 25 lbs).
Compensation and Details: - Pay: Starting at $88,738 annually, DOQ
- Schedule: Full-time, September- June, 190 days
- Employee Group: non-union salary
- Benefits: Full benefits package, including health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. MPSERS provided retirement plan.
- FLSA: Exempt
Notices:
Job Description Changes: Job descriptions may be subject to change based on the OAISD’s needs. This is meant to describe a basic overview of qualifications, role, and duties. It is not an exhaustive or fully comprehensive list as other duties may be assigned.
Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, genetic information, or any other legally protected category (collectively “Protected Classes”), in its programs and activities, including employment. Civil Rights Coordinators are located at OAISD, 13663 Port Sheldon St. Holland, MI 49424 to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and grievance procedures. Telephone (616) 738-8940 Ext: 4091.
