VIDBE-Q 2025 Volume 70 Issue 1
vision impairment through UMass Boston's dedicated efforts and federal grant
funding.
In addition to our program of studies for undergraduate and graduate
students, we have designed a specific course focused on brain-based visual
impairment that is offered as a supplemental class for identification, assessment,
IEP development, and intervention for students with cortical and cerebral visual
impairment. This course has drawn a diverse enrollment pool, consisting of current
students, alumni, TSVIs, early intervention service providers, and other
professionals. This course operates with the support of grant funding from VDOE.
Likewise, our expertise is regularly utilized by VDOE, the Virginia Department of
Transportation (VDOT), the Virginia Legislature, and other state agencies for
research, studies, reporting, and consultation on topics related to individuals with
blindness and vision impairment, pedestrian and transportation considerations,
digital accessibility, literacy, education, transition, and various services.
VI Consortium Funding, Grants, and Admissions
Teacher candidates who reside in Virginia and/or teach for Virginia public
schools are eligible for grant funding that covers up to 70% of tuition through each
of our partner universities. For those not in Virginia, Mason offers discounted out-
of-state tuition, in which many teachers have earned their credentials from various
