HI SCR1

Department of Education is urged to develop and implement an affirmative action program to recruit and employ qualified blind professionals as orientation and mobility instructors and teachers of visually impaired students.

Calls for recognition of National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) credentials alongside existing Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) certifications for teaching blind students.

Notes that the structured discovery approach to orientation and mobility emphasizes employment of blind instructors, while vision-centered approaches emphasize non-blind instructors, limiting job opportunities for qualified blind professionals.

Superintendent of Education is urged to submit a report to the Legislature no later than thirty days before the 2023 Regular Session convening, detailing actions taken, progress made, and any proposed legislation to increase employment of blind instructors.

Certified copies to be transmitted to the Interim Superintendent of Education, Hawaii Teacher Standards Board, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services for the Blind, National Blindness Professional Certification Board, and relevant blind advocacy organizations.