Teacher of Students with Visual ImpairmentsBy: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com Updated June 12, 2025 A Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI)—also known as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired, vision teacher, or VI specialist—is a certified educator with specialized training in supporting students who are blind or have visual impairments. TVIs work with students from birth through age 21, depending on state-specific certification requirements. This is an instructional role, distinct from vision therapy or related services.
The Role of the TVITVIs provide direct and consultative special education services tailored to the impact of visual impairments. They support students, families, and educational teams by helping adapt materials, environments, and instruction. While TVIs are not academic tutors, they may offer supplemental instruction to ensure students grasp key concepts and have equitable access to the curriculum. TVIs collaborate with classroom teachers, therapists, and families to create learning environments that promote independence, academic success, and preparation for adult life. Key responsibilities of the TVI include:
Interpret Medical Eye ReportsTVIs are trained to read and interpret medical eye reports to understand how a student’s vision impacts their access to education and daily tasks. This interpretation helps determine eligibility for services and guides necessary supports.
Conducting Functional Vision & Learning Media AssessmentsTVIs conduct:
Participating in the IEP ProcessAs key members of the IEP team, TVIs:
Recommending Educational Strategies and MaterialsTVIs help procure and adapt:
Conducting Ongoing ObservationsTVIs observe students in various settings to assess how vision is used across daily routines. These observations help determine:
Teaching in Natural EnvironmentsRather than teaching isolated skills, TVIs embed instruction into naturally occurring routines and settings, such as:
Some skills, such as early braille instruction or tactile exploration, may be introduced in quieter, distraction-free settings before being applied in the classroom. Communicating with Families and EducatorsFrequent communication with caregivers and classroom teachers is essential. Since itinerant TVIs see students for limited time, insights from those who interact with the student daily are invaluable. This collaboration helps:
Teaching the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC)In addition to supporting students in accessing the general education curriculum, TVIs are responsible for teaching components of the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC), which addresses areas unique to students with visual impairments. These include:
The Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments plays a vital role in helping students with visual impairments access education, develop independence, and thrive in school and beyond. By collaborating with teams, conducting assessments, and providing specialized instruction, the TVI ensures that students are equipped for academic, social, and functional success.
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The most important day I remember in all my life is the one on which my Teacher, Anne Mansfield Sullivan, came to me." -Helen Keller |
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