The CAIU employs 11 Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVI), three of whom are also dually certified as Orientation and Mobility Specialists. The staff serves 200 - 230 students each year with an annual average of 70 additional students assessed for service.
Assessment
Assessment of individual student needs, including:
- Annual changes in curricular and learning media needs
- Assessment for appropriate technology devices, including Braille output, voice output, large print magnification, audio, adapted software for print, computer output and internet accessibility
- Temporary loan of recommended technology and/or software
- Physical education and other movement activities
Referral Assessment
Assessment is also available to determine possible program enrollment.
- Students of all ages with a possible visual impairment
- Acquisition of an eye specialist report
- Determination of the appropriate reading medium, including a learning media assessment (LMA)Consultation with current teaching staff
- Written report including sources of information and recommendations
- Students
Screenings
- Kindergarten registration screening, conducted on-site according to the district’s schedule, using state health standards
- Screenings for students who are difficult to test
- Reports provided to school nurses to be included in annual health records
- To determine need for additional assessment
Individual Instruction
- Instruction in Braille reading and writing with integration of Braille into the curriculum using the appropriate Braille code, including literary, math, music, foreign language, and computer
- Instruction in utilizing adapted materials for tactile or visual learners
- Instruction in daily living, leisure, and self-advocacy skills
- Instruction with recommended technology and/or adapted software
- Provision of unique classroom supplies and equipment for short-term use
Materials Preparation
- Advance material adaptations per needs of the student for participation in any designated curriculum in various needed codes, hardware and/or software modifications, and PSSA/PASA coordination and administration.
- Acquisition of all materials within a 5-day turn-around, including audio, large print, Braille, tests, quizzes, books, and/or worksheets, to meet the requirements of the law
Support to School Personnel/Consultation
- Knowledgeable staff available for consultation with IEP teams
- Advance planning and supports to maximize participation in appropriate curricula and transition planning
- Knowledgeable personnel available for staff development
Orientation & Mobility
- Certified O&M Specialists available to assess and provide direct service to identified students of any age
- Assessment and service can address concept development related to travel skills in various environments, cane use, low vision devices, movement needs, transportation skills, and skills toward adult independence
Case Management
- Assist districts in managing services for students with visual impairments
Supervisory Support
- Certified TVI Supervisor available to support districts in serving students with complex needs
American Printing House Annual Registration Report
- Facilitate the annual Federal census for persons who are legally blind
- Meet federal records requirements
Deaf Blind Census
- Census report compiled and submitted to the state as courtesy to districts that purchase services
Blind and Visually Impaired Services Program Profile