TEACH IN FLORIDA
Personnel Support and Recruitment
Florida LEA/District Information
LEA/District Resources
Support for New Hires
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If you are a university-trained TSVI and/or O&M instructor who is new to this field or 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.
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FIMC-VI will help connect you with an experienced TSVI and/or O&M instructor in the State. Mentorship is dependent on the mentor's time and availability.
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If you have a teacher that is out-of-field or alternatively certified, please contact tconrad@fimcvi.org for support.
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If you have a paraprofessional who works with students with visual impairments that needs training specific to their role, please see Empowering Paraprofessionals Supporting Students with Visual Impairments.
Florida Department of Education Administrative Rules for Educators of Students Who Are Visually Impaired
Certification
- Specialization Requirements for Certification in the Area of Visually Impaired (Grades K-12)--Academic Class
- Specialization Requirements for the Orientation and Mobility Endorsement--Academic Class
Florida Exceptional Student Education Eligibility and Assessments for Students with Visual Impairments
- Florida State Board eligibility rule
- See also Eligibility and Assessment page
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
Florida State University
This program is an excellent opportunity for educators who are alternatively certified or teaching outside their field and are seeking to develop the specialized skills needed to effectively support students with visual impairments. It is also ideal for educators and paraprofessionals who aspire to become Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI).
Florida State University offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare educators to deliver high-quality, effective instruction to students with visual impairments, equipping them with the knowledge and practical expertise needed to make a meaningful impact in the classroom.
This program is offered fully online and is specifically designed for currently practicing teachers.
Additional information about the program can be found on the Florida State University Blindness & Low Vision Education Program website.
To apply, visit their Admissions Portal page.
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 Tim Puch (Tim.Puch@fsu.edu) to learn more!
Find Additional University Programs
Scholarships available through other agencies
- Florida Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired
- Association for Education & Rehabilitation of the Blind & Visually Impaired – Universities and Scholarships
Field Recruitment Efforts
"Grow Your Own" Programs
National Recruitment Resources
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AER Vision Professional Recruitment Website and Videos
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Success Beyond Sight Resources