To be eligible for the Visually Impaired Program a student has to be medically diagnosed with at least one of the following:
A visual acuity of 20/70 or less in the better eye after best possible correction
A peripheral field so constructed that it affects the student’s ability to function in an educational setting
A progressive loss of vision affecting the student’s ability to function in an educational setting requiring the use of specialized techniques, material or equipment
The goals of the program include development of basic skills through adaptation of the curriculum development of daily living skills and development of prevocational skills. The areas of focus include visual stimulation, auditory and tactile stimulation, orientation & mobility skills and modifications or adaptations needed for functioning in the classroom and at home.
Orientation and Mobility is a movement program that enables a student with visual impairments to ambulate and participate in activities within their environment. The program teaches pre-cane techniques (i.e., Sighted Guide and Trailing), following directions and actual cane techniques. Students are recommended by the Vision Teacher and then evaluated by the Orientation and Mobility teacher, who then determines if direct services are needed.