HI SR108

Department of Education currently struggles to fill teacher positions for blind and visually impaired students, particularly in orientation and mobility services.

Department only accepts Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist certification from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals, limiting available service models.

Resolution requests Department accept National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) from the National Blindness Professional Certification Board to enable Structured Discovery Cane Travel services for blind students.

Hawaii Division of Vocational Rehabilitation already accepts NOMC certification and employs blind adults certified by the NBPCB to provide orientation and mobility services.

Resolution directs certified copies be sent to Governor, Board of Education Chair, Superintendent, and relevant blindness advocacy organizations.