Narrative: d. 2. B.

The purpose of this collaboration with DOE is to promote and establish a process that results in an effective working relationship between state agencies on behalf of, and with youth with disabilities, in order to gain the greatest benefit from their respective programs and services. For DBVI, direct services are provided by teams comprised of specially trained blindness professionals, such as Blindness Rehabilitation Specialist, Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI), and Orientation & Mobility Specialist.  Specialized training includes (but not limited to) the development of visual and spatial concepts, use of adaptive aids, and instruction in reading and writing Braille (when appropriate).  DBVI staff are available to provide group and individual presentations to parents and students who are identified by the schools and/or TVI’s. The schools invite DBVI staff to the IEP meetings.  DBVI staff are available to provide information and discuss post-secondary training/education and employment opportunities. DBVI staff also make recommendations and provide resources for the transition plan for independent living. The transition planning needs are addressed through the IEP.  For example, if the student’s goal is to attend college and live in a dorm, the IEP should include courses that are required by colleges. In the same example, a student with vision impairment may need vision rehabilitation therapy training for living independently in a dorm and orientation and mobility to learn the public transit system.  DBVI will provide work readiness training, job exploration, work based learning experiences, self advocacy training and counseling on post secondary in collaboration with the school.