What is a TVI?

TVI is short for "Teacher for the Visually Impaired." A TVI is a certified special education teacher with a specialty in blindness and low vision.

A Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (also called a Teacher of the Visually Impaired, a vision specialist, VI teacher, vision itinerant teacher, etc.) is typically a licensed special education teacher who has received certification and specialized training in meeting the educational needs of students who are blind or have visual impairments ages birth through 21. This is an instructional position, as opposed to a related service or vision therapy.

The role of the TVI is to provide direct and/or consultative special education services specific to vision loss. The TVI provides support to students, teachers, and parents as well as acts as a liaison with community services. The TVI works with the educational team by advising the team aboutw ays of enhancing the student's learning by adapting activities and materials to the student's abilities. Although the TVI is not an academic tutor, they may spend some time ensuring that the student understands concepts introduced in academic courses.

The TVI may help choose appropriate educational materials, an may brainstorm with teachers and therapists about effective adaptations. By working together, classroom teachers, therapists, and the TVI can create a classroom environment that encourages independence, academic success, and prepares the student to be the most productive member of society that they can be.