FIMC-VI Logo

FIMC-VI

Florida Instructional Materials Center for the Visually Impaired

New to Teaching in Florida

Beginning Florida Teachers of Students with a Visual Impairment (TSVI) and Orientation & Mobility (O&M) Instructors Professional Learning Community (PLC) 

  • Are you new to the field of visual impairments or to Florida? Then this is the place for you! This collaborative PLC will examine a variety of teaching practices, instructional approaches, and resources that are specific to the field of visual impairment in Florida. We will work together to learn and support each other in this very unique and rewarding profession. Short virtual meetings will be held once a month. Participants will receive resources and tools throughout the year to assist them in providing effective and meaningful instructional opportunities for their students. Join us to make connections, receive support, and get your questions answered.
  • Intended audience: First to fifth year TSVIs and O&Ms or VI professionals new to the state of Florida
  • When: August 19, 2024 - May 12, 2025
  • Register
  • Tentative PLC Guide

 

FIMC-VI and FSU Mentor Connection Program 

  • FIMC-VI, in collaboration with FSU, is facilitating a mentor program to connect new teachers in the field and pre-service teachers in FSU’s undergraduate and graduate programs with experienced TVIs and O&M instructors in the state. 

  • If you are an experienced TVI or O&M instructor and are interested in participating in any capacity, please complete the Mentor Program form. We will contact you to find out your availability before making a mentee connection.

  • If you are a TVI and/or O&M instructor new to the field or new to the State of Florida and you would like a professional mentor to communicate with throughout the school year, complete the Mentor Request form.  Communication can take place via phone calls, email, virtual platforms, etc.​

 

Florida Department of Education Administrative Rules for Educators of Students Who Are Visually Impaired

Certification

 

Florida Exceptional Student Education Eligibility and Assessments for Students with Visual Impairments

 

Florida State Standards for Education of Students Who Are Visually Impaired

Course Standards for Expanded Core Competencies (Florida educator certification in Visually Impaired (Elementary and Secondary Grades K-12) required):

Course Standards for Orientation and Mobility (Florida educator certification in Visually Impaired (Elementary and Secondary Grades K-12) Plus Orientation and Mobility Endorsement required):

 

Teacher Preparation Programs at Florida State University 

Are you alternatively certified or teaching out of field and need to learn the specialized skills to work with students who have visual impairments? Are you an educator or paraprofessional who wants to become a TVI? 

Florida State University now offers an online program to prepare teachers who can provide effective instruction to students who are visually impaired.

This program is offered online and specifically tailored for teachers who are working. 

A new cohort begins each August. 

Deadline to apply is July 1st (Application)

Funding from TEACH grants is available to those who agree to teach full time for at least 4 years at a school or educational service agency that serves students from low-income families. Other scholarships are available.

Email Eileen Bischof to learn more!

Scholarships available through other agencies

Field Recruitment Efforts

"Grow Your Own" Programs

National Recruitment Resources