There are various opportunities available for college students and teachers interested in working with students who are identified as low vision or  blind.  This purpose of this web site is to provide is to describe the opportunities and introduce those interested with the hiring process in Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

 Many students who are identified as low vision or blind are educated in the general education curriculum, along sighted students.  Other students may access their education through self-contained programs or residential schools.

The individual needs of the students are taken into consideration through the Individual Educational Plan (IEP) meeting. In accordance with the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Reauthorize 2003, each student is entitled to access “a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment….. with the necessary supplementary aides and services.”

•  IF you are a college student or an individual without a teaching certificate you may consider enrolling in courses to become a paraprofessional.
   

• IF you are already a qualified teacher, you may select to specialist in the low incidence area of low vision or blind within the public school system.
   

• IF you are interested in working in a more specialized environment, you may consider residential programs, such as Florida School of the Deaf and the Blind.

Areas of Specialization:

Teacher of Low Vision or Blind Students
For Children who are Low Vision or Blind

Goal: To help students who are low vision see the best that they can see.

• Summarize clinical vision examinations
• Administer functional vision evaluations
• Analyze and implement appropriate reading medium (Braille or large print)
• Referrals for further diagnostic exams
• Provide direct or consultation services for classroom adaptations
• Administer Vision screenings or evaluations
• Evaluate and recommend assistive technology for low vision or blind students
• Facilitate purchase of assistive technology
• Referrals for orientation and mobility assessment and services
• Provide follow-up in the home and/or school classroom

Orientation & Mobility Specialist
For Children who are Low Vision or Blind

Goal: To enable students to move safely and as independently as possible while becoming more aware of where they are as they move.

Areas of instruction include:

• Concept development
• Fine and gross motor
• Protective skills
• Use of senses - smell, touch, hearing
• Use of travel aids, such as white cane, sunshields, telescopes or electronic devices
• Travel skills in residential and business areas
• Safe street crossing skills at stop sign and light controlled intersections.
• Information gathering - assistance seeking skills
• Efficient use of remaining vision
• Public transportation
• Grocery shopping
• Organizational skills

 
Assistive Technology for Visually Impaired
Resources for Families and Educators

Goal: To increase access to education for students who are low vision or blind

• Accessible Textbooks
• Books on Tape
• Braille Books and Materials
• Large Print Books and Materials
• Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTV)
• Magnifiers

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