Orientation & Mobility Services
Services are provided to students identified as "visually impaired" (according to R340.1708 of the Revised Administrative Rules for Special Education) through the Individualized Education Program process.
What is Orientation & Mobility (O & M), and who is eligible?
"Orientation" refers to the ability to know where you are and where you want to go. This includes moving from room to room or walking around the block.
"Mobility" refers to the ability to move safely and efficiently from one place to another. This includes being able to walk without contacting obstacles in your path or falling, cross streets, and use of public transportation.
Orientation & Mobility (O & M) services are provided to the students of Eaton county, ages birth through 26, who are identified as visually impaired.
Orientation & Mobility Services:
An O & M program helps the visually impaired child develop the skills and concepts needed to travel within their home, school, and community. Following an O & M evaluation in which the child's abilities and needs are assessed, recommendations are made. If O & M services are recommended, goals for direct or indirect services are written into the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or the Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), depending on the age of the child. O & M services are individualized to meet the needs and abilities of each child. It is typically conducted on a one-to-one basis and takes place in the child's home, school, or place of employment.
