MARESA deaf/hard of hearing and vision consultants work in collaboration with school staff to offer students with hearing and visual impairments the best access to tools and training to achieve educational goals.
Consultant for the Deaf/Hard of Hearing
The Consultant for the Deaf/Hard of Hearing provides direct services to deaf/hard of hearing students that are supportive of special education or general education teachers, as well as provides consultation to educational personnel on behalf of the deaf/hard of hearing students. The consultant also manages the assistive equipment necessary for students.
Deaf/Hard of Hearing Resources
- Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing — www.agbell.org (opens in new tab)
- Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center Gallaudet University — www.clerccenter.gallaudet.edu (opens in new tab)
- Michigan Hands & Voices — https://handsandvoices.org/ (opens in new tab)
Teacher Specialist for the Visually Impaired
The Teacher Specialist for the Visually Impaired provides direct instruction to students who are blind or visually impaired. Use of braille writers and other specialized equipment are available for students. Teacher Specialist support is also offered to school staff and parents.
VI Resources
- FamilyConnect (APH ConnectCenter) – resources for families of children who are blind or visually impaired — https://familyconnect.org/ (opens in new tab)
Low Vision Therapist
The Low Vision Therapist provides a Low Vision Functional Assessment working together with the classroom teacher and the Consultant for the Visually Impaired to provide services and accommodations for the student.
Low VI Resources
- Michigan Department of Education – Low Incidence Outreach — https://mdelio.org/ (opens in new tab)
Orientation and Mobility Specialist
The Orientation and Mobility Specialist (OMS) provides assistance to blind and visually impaired students. OMS teach independent mobility, functional living skills and the ability for the student with a visual impairment to develop skills to orient to an unfamiliar environment. An assessment of the student’s current level, related to orientation and mobility skills, is provided and an individual program is designed for the student. Social behaviors, safety issues, and the use of low vision devices are also taught.
Contact
MARESA Special Education Department
- Phone: (906) 226-5149