Philosophy

Orleans/Niagara BOCES' Teachers of the Visually Impaired students, work as part of an educational team to promote learning and independence within the education setting. 

We believe that with appropriate instruction and adaptations all students can reach their highest level of independence. 

Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments

Our New York State certified teachers are knowledgeable in all aspects of visual functioning.  We understand the implications of visual impairment on academic functioning, socialization and life skills.  Working as part of the educational team consisting of students, teachers and parents, we will identify student needs, and provide appropriate remediation and educational program support - providing individualized educational services for students' varying abilities. 

We provide services to students whose visual functioning adversely affects their educational program.  These students may be totally blind, have low vision, or have visual processing difficulties. 

Educational Vision Program Services

• Prepare students to meet the New York State Education Standards.
• Develop adaptations, strategic instruction and techniques to compensate for visual and/or processing difficulties.
• Provide information and resources for technology and specialized equipment. 
• Enhance visual efficiency through specially designed programs.
• Work with parents and schools to develop an understanding of students' visual needs. 
• Establish liaison support between medical professionals, family and community services.
• Offer access to the curriculum through Braille, large print and auditory media.
• Provide assessment services to determine if educational vision services are appropriate. 

Orientation and Mobility

Orientation and Mobility Instruction (O&M) is an important component of the educational curriculum for students who have visual impairment.  The Orientation and Mobility Specialist provides formal instruction in orientation and mobility skills.  Orientation refers to the process of making use of sensory information to establish oneself in relationship to the environment; mobility is the process of physical movement within the environment. 

O&M Program Services

Our trained specialists provide direct instruction in:

• Movement with a sighted guide
• Protective techniques
• Indoor cane skills
• Outdoor cane skills
• Street Crossings
• Use of Public Transportation
• Identification and use of enviromental landmarks and clues
• Knowledge and use of cardinal directions
• Knowledge and use of indoor and outdoor numbering systems
• Utilization of sound clues within the environment
• Use of systematic search patterns
• Where, when and how to solicit assistance

For further information please contact:

Mrs. Paulette Hamilton- Special Education Coordinator

Phone: (716)731-6800 ext. 4269