CHMS is seeking a Communication Facilitator. The communication facilitator’s role is not one of an interpreter but rather the individual who makes it possible for the child who is deaf or hard of hearing to access the activities of the program and encourages appropriate interaction with peers. 

The facilitator takes directions and cues from the teacher and child, communicates using language appropriate for the child, and must clarify aspects of the child’s surroundings (i.e., routines, rules, and concepts).  The facilitator assists staff and peers in developing appropriate communication strategies with the child.  That person interprets or paraphrases instructions, stories told aloud and other spoken exchanges of the teachers and classmates.  In addition, depending on the exact nature of the placement, the facilitator may be asked to teach small groups, to tutor one-on-one and/or perform other tasks specific to the given environment.

In addition, this position will provide some level of general support within the building, supporting students and classroom teachers within the regular school setting.  The position involves performing a variety of supportive activities with a diverse population of students.  

Requirements:

• Fluency in American Sign Language with flexibility in using signing skills to support the child's needs
• Has experience and skills appropriate to responsibilities.
• High School Diploma/GED

QUALIFICATIONS

• Fluency in the child’s language/communication mode such as: American Sign Language, Cued Speech, Total Communication, etc. with flexibility in using signing skills to support the child's needs.
• Experience working with children
• Training in child development and education
• Knowledge of behavior management, inclusion.
• Ability to adapt information, language, and curriculum to the individual learning style
• Ability to work as a collaborative team member
• Creative, energetic, flexible, and patient.

Responsibilities:

1. Works the hours and days as required for the individual student or program that is consistent with the Master Agreement.
2. Works with individual/small/large groups of students to reinforce instruction and support student learning.
3. Supports classroom teachers in curriculum development, activity modification, and other clerical duties as assigned.  
4. Support/modify classroom curricula & provide reinstruction for specific students (under supervision of appropriate professionals).
5. Assist students with work completion within classroom & guided study settings.
6. Documentation of student progress/performance as requested by appropriate staff. 
7. Attend team meetings as requested by supervisor.
8. Assists with supervision of students during recess, lunch, emergency drills, assemblies and field trips.
9. Utilizes appropriate building systems for communicating questions and/or concerns.
10. Reports all student safety issues to immediate supervisor and/or building administrator.
11. Sensitive to the need for confidentiality in dealing with student/school/district matters.
12. Other duties as assigned by special educator, classroom teacher, principal, or designee.

POTENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Explain/paraphrase teacher instructions or comments in sign language, voice, gesture, and/or pictures.
• Use a variety of communication methods (signs, voice, gestures, print) to help with communication between the student, peers, and staff.
• Expand what students say to model more complex language.
• When necessary, explain what the student has said to staff and students
• Paraphrase in sign language what peers say to the student. Help increase peer interaction.
• At times, the CF will work one-to-one with the student showing, explaining, or helping the student to do an activity.
• Assist with curriculum modification as appropriate.
• Work with the student, peers, and teachers on strategies for interactive communication, and life skills independent of the communication facilitator.
• Provide sign language instruction to staff and peers as requested by supervisor..
• Manage the student’s amplification and communication equipment.

MMUUSD is committed to supporting the success of all learners by eradicating bias in our systems. We are especially interested in applicants with diverse experiences who share our commitment and are invested in helping all students know they belong.

We offer an excellent benefits package including medical, dental and life insurance and a competitive salary. Our schools offer a respectful and collaborative work environment and a supportive team atmosphere! For more information about our school district, please visit our web page at https://www.mmuusd.org/. 

Questions? Please contact CHMS at 802-434-2188.