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Plan: Maine PYs 2020-2023
Unified Plan U

Section: Vocational Rehabilitation Program (Blind)

Narrative: i. 4. A.

Published
Located in:
  • Program-Specific Requirements for Vocational Rehabilitation (Blind)

    The Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Services Portion of the Unified or Combined State Plan [13] must include the following descriptions and estimates, as required by section 101(a) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended by title IV of WIOA:

    __________

    [13] Sec. 102(b)(2)(D)(iii) of WIOA

    • i. Comprehensive System of Personnel Development; Data System on Personnel and Personnel Development

      Describe the designated State agency's procedures and activities to establish and maintain a comprehensive system of personnel development designed to ensure an adequate supply of qualified State rehabilitation professional and paraprofessional personnel for the designated State unit, including the following:

      • 4. Staff Development

        Describe the State agency's policies, procedures, and activities to ensure that, consistent with section101(a)(7)(C) of the Rehabilitation Act, all personnel employed by the designated State unit receive appropriate and adequate training in terms of:

i. 4. A. A system of staff development for professionals and paraprofessionals within the designated State unit, particularly with respect to assessment, vocational counseling, job placement, and rehabilitation technology, including training implemented in coordination with entities carrying out State programs under section 4 of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998; and

Current Narrative:

DBVI utilizes current staff with specific interests and skills as subject matter experts in the area of technology. These technology specialists work with the DBVI leadership to recommend devices and equipment for purchase as demos for the various offices; devices include items such as Sunu Band, Talking Compass, Victor Reader Trek, iPad, and Aftershokz headphones.  Consultation with the Buzz clip company occurred to obtain demo devices that are housed in the regional offices. Multiple presentations on Aira app to individual clients and the Maine Low Vision group are/were offered. Consultation is provided to DBVI staff in regard to apps and other technology as requested as well as the provision of AT training/overview for new DBVI staff.  Staff attended trainings offered by Maine CITE Adaptive Equipment Financing Program, OIB-TAC, International O&M Online Symposium and Helen Keller Deafblindness Equipment to stay current on new apps and technologies.