Itinerant Teaching Tips

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
​Updated July 1, 2025
Itinerant teaching is a rewarding and dynamic role, but it can also come with its fair share of challenges. Balancing diverse caseloads, managing travel between schools, conducting assessments, and collaborating with multiple teams can be overwhelming. Getting organized can greatly reduce stress and help you focus on what matters most—your students. Below are practical tips for thriving as an itinerant TVI. 

Become Familiar with the Area

As an itinerant teacher, you’ll spend a lot of time on the road. Knowing alternate routes can be a lifesaver when you're stuck behind a school bus, tractor, snowplow—or when faced with construction, traffic, or flooding (yes, it happens!).
  • Use GPS but also consider keeping a traditional map in your car in case your navigation system fails.
  • You can often pick up free maps at local Chambers of Commerce, Visitor Centers, or Departments of Transportation.
  • If you’re new to the area or visiting a new school, take time to learn the lay of the land before your first visit.

Managing Travel Time

Some schools may be close together, but it’s likely you’ll spend 20 minutes to an hour between visits. Use that time wisely!
  • Never multitask while driving, especially in poor conditions.
  • Use travel time to mentally plan lessons, rehearse IEP talking points, or listen to podcasts or audiobooks.
  • Pack portable snacks to eat on the road, freeing up time during your actual lunch break.
Favorite On-the-Go Snacks (Gluten-Free and Easy to Eat):
  • Apples or easy-to-eat fruits
  • Sliced cheese with crackers
  • String cheese
  • Baby carrots with individual hummus
  • Veggie straws or chips
  • Nuts, seeds, or dried chickpeas
  • GoGo applesauce pouches or Mama Chia
  • Boxes of raisins or craisins
  • Trail mix
  • KIND bars or protein bars
  • Go Picnic boxes
  • Sandwiches, pitas, or wraps
  • Skinny Pop popcorn

Organizing Your Car (Your Mobile Office)

Choose a reliable, comfortable car with a good trunk and gas mileage. Keep it maintained and stocked with essentials.
Must-Have Items for Your Car:
  • Cell phone charger
  • Laptop (only if safe to store)
  • Notepad and pens
  • Kleenex
  • Hand sanitizer and travel wipes
  • First aid kit
  • Umbrella(s)
  • Plasticware
  • Collapsible dolly
  • Crate or bin to prevent materials from shifting
  • Blanket
  • Ice scraper and brush (yes, even in Georgia!)
  • Water bottles
  • Small scissors and nail clippers
  • Local map
  • Hard candy for a quick pick-me-up
  • Accordion file for frequently used forms
  • AAA membership and jumper cables
  • Basic knowledge of car maintenance (e.g., changing a tire)

Work Bag Essentials

Your work bag will go everywhere with you. Keep it lightweight, but stocked with what you need throughout the day.
What to Include:
  • A small supply bag with pens, pencils, highlighters, scissors, etc.
  • A month-at-a-glance planner for tracking direct services, consults, and meetings
  • Daily mileage tracking section for monthly mileage reports
  • VI Program Handbook with Data Collection: A consolidated binder combining your handbook and data collection tools
  • A laptop or tablet (if needed and safe to carry)
  • A small notepad for quick notes or reminders
Pro Tip: Use email calendar invites for meetings to keep teams in the loop and help you stay organized.

Program Printables and Resources

Take advantage of free downloadable handouts and templates to streamline your work and lesson planning.
  • Sign up for free membership to access resources on the Free Program Printables page.
  • Access ready-to-use handouts, ECC checklists, data forms, and the Goal Bank pages.
  • Create a personalized binder of your most-used forms to keep with you or in your car.
By planning ahead and staying organized, you can reduce daily stress and focus on delivering high-quality instruction and support to your students. Whether you’re new to the itinerant role or a seasoned pro, adopting these practical habits can make your days smoother and more productive.

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