The program for students with visual impairments provides a systemic, comprehensive, program-planning process for improving the delivery of services. Specialized training is offered through the staff development online catalog (iLearning), and technical assistance is available upon request. ESC-20 also provides certification classes for teachers of the visually impaired and Orientation and Mobility specialists (offered through Texas Tech University as needed). All services are provided according to the Regional Plan for Services which is developed in collaboration with the fiscal agent school districts of the VI Cluster programs.
Resources
Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI) The TSBVI web site is a worldwide resource on visual impairments. TSBVI offers residential and short term educational programs, and the Outreach Department is an invaluable source of information to professionals, parents, and students. Its teaching curriculum and its website serve most countries around the world and is recognized as the leading resource in visual impairment education.
Texas DARS Division for Blind Services The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Division for Blind Services (DBS) assists blind or visually impaired individuals and their families. Depending upon their goals and needs, DBS offers services to help regain independence or find a job. DBS staff work in partnership with Texans who are blind or visually impaired to get high quality jobs, live independently, or help a child receive the training needed to be successful in school and beyond.
San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind (SALB) The San Antonio Lighthouse for the Blind (SALB) creates opportunities for individual independence by providing rehabilitation programs and employment opportunities that measurably improve the lives of blind and visually impaired individuals.
ESC-20 Braille Services Education Service Center, Region 20 assists businesses and other agencies in complying with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements to assist visually impaired clients. Since 1988 the trained and certified employees of the Braille Services Department at ESC-20 have provided transcription and production of quality Braille materials.
Education Service Center, Region 18 (ESC-18) Region 18 provides statewide leadership for the Legal Framework for the Child-Centered Process in Texas for the Division of IDEA Coordination at the Texas Education Agency. The resource page provides access to documents that are used in the special education process. The framework is a template in electronic format that summarizes state and federal requirements for special education by topic, including requirements for eligibility, assessment, and documentation for visual impairments.
