Because vision impacts how students access information, navigate environments, and develop independence, a team of trained professionals works collaboratively to support each student’s development. These professionals bring expertise in instruction, accessibility, orientation and mobility, assistive technology, and rehabilitation. Their work helps students build the skills needed for academic success, independence, and successful transition to adulthood.​

Become a Vision Professional

This page provides an overview of career options, qualifications, and steps to enter the field of visual impairment services. Learn More: Become a Vision Professional

Professional Preparation Programs

This page provides information about university programs, certification pathways, and training requirements for Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments, Orientation and Mobility Specialists, and related professionals. Learn More: Professional Prep Programs

Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments

The Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) provides specialized instruction that supports access to academic content and Expanded Core Curriculum skill development. Learn More: Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments ​

Orientation & Mobility Specialist

The Orientation & Mobility Specialist (O&M). Provides instruction in safe and independent travel, including orientation skills, cane techniques, and environmental awareness. Learn More: Orientation & Mobility Specialist ​

Low Vision Specialist

The Low Vision Specialist evaluates functional vision and recommends devices and adaptations that support visual access. Learn More: ​Low Vision Specialist

Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialists 

The Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist (CATIS) provides assessment and instruction in assistive technology to support independence and access. Learn More: Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist 

Rehabilitation and Independence Professionals

Rehabilitation specialists support independence, daily living, and transition to adulthood. They also provide instruction in employment readiness and community participation. Learn More: Rehabilitation Specialists

Paraprofessionals

Support instructional implementation and assist with providing access to instructional materials and classroom activities. Learn More: Paraprofessionals

Braille Transcriber

The braille transcriber produces braille instructional materials to ensure access to written information.​Learn More: Braille Transcriber
Vision professionals work together to ensure students have access to instruction, environments, and opportunities that support independence and lifelong success. Understanding these roles helps educators, families, and future professionals collaborate effectively and build strong support systems for students with visual impairments.

Resource Access

Instructional articles on this site are open access and do not require an account. Free Members may access select free resources and goal banks.
Downloadable printable resources, lesson plans, recorded presentations, and ECC instructional units are available to Premium Subscribers.

Full Article List

Guide: Start Here
Tools (VI Basics)
Plan: Referrals & Eligibility
Referral & Eligibility​ ​Medical Vision Information 
FVLMALow Vision Evaluations
Other Evaluations
Plan: IEP Planning
Plan: Collaboration & Accessibility
​Collaboration Accessible Materials ​Classroom Access Instructional Access Technology Access ​Additional Supports Service Delivery Models  ​
Teach: Compensatory Skills
Compensatory Skills
Concept Development ​Alternative Communication ​Emergent Literacy ​Braille Code
​Beginning Braille ​ Braille Fluency & Comprehension  Writing Braille ​​​Nemeth Code Instruction 
​​​Tactile Graphics ​Print Concepts ​​Abacus  ​​Organization Skills​ ​​Study Skills ​​Time Management
Teach: Sensory Efficiency Skills
​Auditory & Listening Skills ​​Visual Efficiency Skills ​​Optical Device Use ​Tactile Readiness
Teach: Assistive Technology 
AT Overview ​AT Use & Maintenance Braille AT ​iOS Instruction Audio Access​ ​Video Magnifiers ​​​Basic Computer Use Computer Access ​Productivity
Teach: Social Skills
Social Skill Basics​
Non-Verbal Skills​​​​ Verbal Communication Skills Cooperative Skills Identity & Self-Awareness ​Interactions & Relationships Managing Challenges & Safety
Teach: Self Determination
Teach: Independent Living Skills
Personal Care ​Hygiene & Grooming ​Personal Health Mealtime Skills ​​​ Food Preparation
Household Skills Clothing Management ​Money & Budget Shopping & Consumerism Phone Use ​Safety & Emergency Preparedness ​​Services & Community Resources
Teach: Orientation & Mobility
Teach: Recreation & Leisure
Teach: Career & Vocational
Printables
Free Resources​ Premium Resource Library 
Teaching Strategy Printables 
​Premium Program Printables
​Premium FVLMA Printables
​ECC PrintablesCompensatory Skills Printables
Sensory Efficiency Printables
Assistive Technology Printables
Social Skills Printables
Self Determination Printables
Independent Living Printables
Recreation & Leisure Printables
Career & Vocational Printables
Evelyn Jane Stories 
Learn: Teaching Strategies & Planning
Learn: ​ECC Units
Beginning of the Year Units ​​Fall UnitsWinter Units ​​Winter Units ​​Spring UnitsAnytime Units
Learn: ​Interactive Activities
Learn: Recorded Presentations
Learn: Complete Set Bonus ​