Children and youths aged three to 21 who are blind or visually impaired, and their families, school district staff, and other professionals.
These children may or may not have disabilities in addition to their visual impairment.
The Washington state educational definition of “blind/visually impaired” reads:
“Children/youth with a visual impairment that, even with correction, adversely affects their educational performance and requires specially designed instruction.”
Note: This definition may be changing; new WACS will be published in 2006.
Children with partial sight, low vision, or blindness may have other conditions such as cerebral palsy or developmental delay that require additional educational adaptations.
They may require low vision aids such as large print books, electronic devices for reading material, magnifiers, Braille, adapted computer access, or training in efficient use of low vision aids. They may require orientation and mobility instruction as well to learn to move and navigate safely in their environment.
For more information, contact Terri Thurston, coordinator of services for students with visual impairment: 509-665-2619
Infants and toddlers aged birth to three with visual impairment qualify for services through Washington’s Infant Toddler Early Intervention Program.
We can refer you to specialized services in your area, or help to provide training and support for your local service providers if needed. We have a free lending library of videotapes, books, curricula, and other resources.
If you suspect that an infant or toddler may have a visual impairment, you can call us for guidance. We can help refer you to a pediatric ophthalmologist for assessment.
For infant/toddler questions, contact Nancy Hatfield, director of early childhood:
425-917-7828 (Puget Sound ESD, Renton
800-572-7000 (toll free in Washington state)