Traffic Safety Instructor – Behind-the-Wheel

The NWESD aspires to be a racially and culturally inclusive staff that reflects the diversity of those we serve. We believe this strengthens our organization, stimulates creativity, promotes the exchange of ideas, and enriches staff engagement.

SUMMARY:

This position will provide and utilize a variety of teaching strategies and techniques that enable students to achieve the statewide Traffic Safety Education (TSE) objectives to become knowledgeable, safe and efficient drivers on the highway transportation system.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS :

• Maintain a constructive, safe and pleasant learning environment in the classroom and in the vehicle at all times.
• Provide quality behind-the-wheel lesson planning to assure the Washington TSE Curriculum is delivered with fidelity.
• Provide good management and discipline in the behind-the-wheel instruction of students, communicating any concerns to the TSE Classroom Teacher.
• Make use of teaching methods that provide for individual behind-the-wheel student learning and driving abilities, reduced student anxieties, and involvement of back-seat observers.
• Use Resource Guide and follow all of the guidelines for instructional material as listed in the Traffic Safety Administrative Manual.
• Maintain and provide the TSE Classroom Teacher accurate documentation of attendance, student progress for behind-the-wheel performance, and any students’ special needs.
• Implement the driving schedule established by the TSE Classroom Teacher to meet the needs of the students, including any adjustments.
• Complete all records as required by the Northwest Educational Service District and/or State of Washington.
• Communicate effectively with high school students using appropriate technical vocabulary and maintain good instructor/student rapport.
• Select routes for on-street and on-site lessons.
• Conduct students’ learning activities, from simple to complex, which should correspond with the learner’s mental, physical and emotional performance capabilities, in coordination with classroom activities as communicated by the TSE Classroom Teacher.
• Maintain a position within the vehicle that ensures awareness of the traffic scene and utilize control instruments to maintain safety and facilitate instruction.
• Apply uniform evaluation criteria in assessing needs and progress of the students during and after each lesson in the classroom and behind-the-wheel.
• Maintain a safety inspection schedule of the vehicle and reports any deficiencies to the Northwest Educational Service District or designee.
• Adhere to the ethical standards for teaching professionals as outlined in the Code of Professional Conduct, Chapter 181-87 WAC and established rules, regulations and laws governing ESD and public employees.
• Participate in professional development activities and use educational research to enhance educational services.
• Assist in the development of the Traffic Safety Curriculum for the Northwest Educational Service District.

QUALIFICATIONS:  Bachelor’s Degree and teacher preparation program with a valid Washington State teaching certificate with Traffic Safety Education endorsement or Conditional Behind-the-Wheel Certification approval by Washington State’s Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction required.  Applicant must provide a record for a five-year period at the time of hire and annually thereafter, from the Department of Licensing (DOL) and/or other driver licensing jurisdiction showing a satisfactory driving record with: a) not more than one (1) moving violation within the preceding 12 months or not more than two (2) moving violations within the preceding 24 months;  b) no alcohol-related violations within the preceding three years; and c) no driver license suspension, cancellation, revocation or denial within the preceding three years.  At least two years experience working in an educational environment and working knowledge of personal computers preferred. WSP/FBI criminal history background clearance required.

Requires:

• Demonstrated ability to communicate orally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and follow direction.
• Demonstrated ability to interact with students, parents and staff in a clear and professional manner.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Required to travel.

Hazards:  Due to the nature of the population of the school, hazards include but are not limited to exposure to weapons, threats, verbal abuse, hitting, fighting, throwing of objects, etc.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the essential functions of this position, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or otherwise to balance the workload. Changes to the position description may be made at the discretion of the employer.

It is the policy of the Northwest Educational Service District No. 189 to not discriminate against any person with regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, marital status, physical or mental disability, or citizenship or immigration status.