PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to ensure that TSBVI develops and implements a comprehensive training program for instructional and other staff who work with students. The intent is to establish a fundamental core of information, knowledge, and concepts directly related to the education of students with visual impairments which must be mastered by specified personnel employed at TSBVI.
TRAINING PROGRAM CONTENT, LENGTH, AND REQUIREMENTS
The training program will consist of intensive training in the foundations of visual impairments covering the effects of visual impairment on development, building independence, eye anatomy, conditions and medications, working with parents, instructional strategies and adaptations, tactual adaptations, low vision adaptations, eligibility and services, the expanded core curriculum, adapted technology and orientation and mobility. Components of the instruction will be a program of courses in the school’s online learning management system as well as face to face training. All required instruction and activities (homework, tests, etc.) must be completed within a twelve-month period after hire. The timeline for completion may be extended due to extenuating circumstances to the next twelve-month period with principal/director approval. Written notification of an extension, along with the new deadline date, must be communicated by the approver to Human Resources. The online learning management system will then be updated with the new deadline date.
PROCEDURES
The Superintendent shall ensure that procedures are developed to implement this policy.
STAFF SUBJECT TO REQUIREMENT
The following staff shall be required to take TSBVI’s training program in foundations of visual impairment, except for those staff who hold the Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI) supplemental certification from the State Board of Educator Certification:
- Licensed Specialists in School Psychology (LSSPs)
- Social Workers
- Speech Pathologists
- Outreach professional staff whose assignments do not require the TSVI supplemental certification
- Physical and Occupational Therapists and OT/PT Assistants
- Teacher Aides (all levels)
- Job Coaches and other paraeducator Career Education staff.
- Health Center Director (training is optional for other nurses)
- Residential Directors
- Assistant Residential Directors
- Dorm Managers
- Residential Instructors
Teachers hired without the TSVI certification who will be required to obtain it will take the Orientation and Mobility portion of the training only so that they obtain this critical information during the first year of enrollment.
If an employee changes positions so that the new position requires a higher level of training under the provisions of this policy, that employee shall complete the additional requirements within the timelines established by this policy.
Adopted: 5/8/81 (as DBA)
Amended: 6/29/84, 7/12/85, 1/23/87, 7/17/87, 11/12/87, 9/15/88, 6/1/89, 1/26/90, 5/28/92, 5/26/95, 9/29/95, 11/17/95 (as DBA), 11/14/97 (as DMBA), 9/22/00, 6/1/18, 10/7/24
Reviewed: