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VIDBE - Q Volume 63 Issue 1
Among the staff are specialists in vis ual impairments, low vision, deafblindness, multiple
disabilities, early intervention, personnel preparation, assistive technology, orientation
and mobility, and distance education. The Outreach Program also coordinates TSBVI's
partnership with the two uni versity programs (Texas Tech and Stephen F. Austin State
Universities) training TSVIs and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS)
through funding provided to TSBVI as the fiscal agent by the Texas Legislature for
stipends and operational cost s. This unique arrangement includes a statewide mentor
program where new and experienced educators are matched by region, and the Mentor
Center where new educators come to the TSBVI campus to observe instructional
methods and materials. About 83 new TSVIs and COMS graduate from the two
programs each year, and go on to serve in schools statewide.
TSBVI's Outreach Program devotes much of its time to working with families as
well as supporting parent groups such as those associated with deafblindness, multiple
disabilities, and CHARGE syndrome. Excellent outcomes have been achieved around
the state with the Parent Leadership Program designed to train parents to work with
other parents and families to become better and more informed advocates and partners
with t heir children's local schools.
Another important statewide role played by TSBVI's Outreach Program is to
facilitate the Texas Action Committee (TAC) and the Personnel Preparation Advisory
Group (PPAG). The TAC has an official connection to the Texas Educa tion Agency,
and brings together educators, parents, rehabilitation agencies, universities, and
consumer advocacy groups. The goal of the TAC is to improve services by focusing on
areas of high need and developing solutions. The group also develops materia ls such
