Orientation & Mobility

Students with visual impairments can receive help from a specialized expert to equip them with the skills and confidence to move throughout their world. Our experts will be helpful advocates for visually-impaired students and will support their growth in and out of the classroom.

girl standing outside facing forward holding cane

Benefits

Students receive 1:1 individualized instruction from a licensed O&M specialist who teaches orientation strategies for increased mobility. 

  • Promotes an inclusive educational environment where all students can thrive.
  • Delivers instructional coaching to support the effective implementation of AAC strategies.
  • Customizes services to meet the unique needs of each district and student population.
  • Improves accessibility to educational content and activities for all students.
  • Provides ongoing support and maintenance for all implemented solutions.

Goals

• Increasing O&M skills improves an individual student’s ability to
travel around independently, safely, efficiently, and gracefully
• Providing the same access to O&M students on school environments
the same as their peers when their residual vision is insufficient
• Educate staff on needs - it’s not a stick, it’s a white cane

Who might benefit from participating?

Students, Families, O&M/Physical/Occupational Therapists, Administrators, Principals

Outcomes/Deliverables

CESA 6 O&M Specialists provide:

• Instruction in school and the surrounding community environments
• Familiarity with optometrists and ophthalmologists across the state
• Connections with adult services to make smoother, more beneficial transitions
to life after high school
• Collaboration with other therapists and staff within the districts
• Family education and collaboration to build the best possible support system
for the individual student
• Scheduling flexibility
• Evaluation of student skills
• Effective goal setting and implementation

Success Stories

O&M has given me the opportunity to ask questions regarding my student who receives services to better be able to support him in the school environment. O&M has given our student the opportunity to be more efficient and confident in his traveling...

Gabrielle Schultz,Gen Ed Teacher