Information for O&M PRoviders

Dear Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist,

EnhanceAbility is seeking Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS) interested in participating in Access in Motion (AIM), an innovative regional hub program designed to address critical Orientation and Mobility service shortages for students who are blind or visually impaired throughout Virginia.

As O&M professionals, you understand the growing challenge school divisions face in securing qualified providers. Access in Motion was developed to expand student access to high-quality, community-based O&M instruction while connecting COMS with meaningful short-term instructional opportunities.

About Access in Motion

Access in Motion is a regional service model that brings students together for intensive, individualized O&M instruction in authentic community settings. Students participating in the program may have O&M services identified on their IEPs, be owed compensatory services, or attend school divisions experiencing provider shortages.

The program focuses on:

• independent travel skills

• route planning

• street crossing techniques

• community navigation

• problem-solving and decision-making

• safe and effective cane travel

• public transportation

• travel in real-world environments that support long-term independence

Roanoke Hub Opportunity

Location: Roanoke, Virginia
Dates: April 15–16, 2027
Instructional Hours: 7:45 a.m.–3:00 p.m. daily

COMS will be matched with students based on age, needs, and instructional goals whenever possible.

Responsibilities

Participating COMS will:

• review assigned student information and relevant IEP goals prior to the event

• collaborate with the Lead COMS regarding route selection and instructional planning

• deliver individualized, community-based O&M instruction during the two-day hub

• maintain student safety while promoting independence and problem-solving

• participate in a group lunch/check-in period during each instructional day

• complete and submit a summary progress report following the event, to be submitted by 5:00 pm the Monday following the Access in Motion event

• Participation in post-event survey

Compensation

Participating COMS receive a $2,000 stipend per hub event. This stipend is intended to cover:

• direct instructional services

• instructional planning

• documentation and report writing

• meals, lodging, and travel expenses associated with participation

A Lead COMS position may also be available for qualified candidates interested in assisting with site planning, route development, instructor support, and overall hub coordination.

Why Participate?

Access in Motion allows COMS to:

• make a direct impact on students who otherwise may not receive needed services

• provide instruction in rich, authentic community environments

• collaborate with fellow O&M professionals

• support school divisions in meeting IEP and compensatory service obligations

• help demonstrate a scalable solution to Virginia's O&M provider shortage

Most importantly, your expertise helps students develop the confidence, safety skills, and independence necessary for success in school, employment, and community life.

Interested in Participating?

If you are a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist interested in serving as a COMS or Lead COMS for Access in Motion, please contact:

Amanda Thompson, Program Coordinator
EnhanceAbility

We welcome experienced COMS who are passionate about providing high-quality instruction and expanding access to Orientation and Mobility services across the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Thank you for your commitment to empowering students who are blind or visually impaired through safe, effective, and meaningful travel instruction.

Sincerely,

Amanda Thompson | Program Coordinator
"Building independence through movement, confidence, and community access."