From left to right,, back row: Michael Munro, Donna Wood, Barry Stafford, and Dr. Dixie Mercer [retired]. Front row, from left to right: Tracy Hallak, Franke Swift and Deborah 'Cricket' Cady.
Visual Impairments
The Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI) program prepares the student to teach children with visual impairments from birth through 22 years of age. The program focuses on graduate level students who already hold a valid Texas teaching certificate. Instructional arrangements and schedules are designed with the needs of the non-traditional student in mind. Approximately one calendar year is required to complete the requirements of the program. Students are admitted once per year in cohorts that begin during the summer. Required classes include:· SPE 517 - Braille Reading and Writing
· SPE 516 - Structure and Function of the Visual System
These two classes are taught through participating Education Service Centers over TETN. After this six hour block has been completed, students are expected to take the TExES test in braille in order to fulfill the requirements for probationary certification as a TVI. Once probationary status has been granted, they may serve as a district TVI while completing their training in:
· SPE 515 - Foundations in Visual Impairment
· SPE 552 - Instructional Methods for Students who have Multiple Impairments including Vision
· SPE 518 - Basic Orientation and Mobility
· SPE 551 - Method for Working with Students who have a Single, Visual Disability
A six semester hour practicum is also required. Students must complete ALL instruction before being taking the VI TExES and earning permanent certification.
Grant funding is usually available for students in the TVI program. Funded slots are, however, allocated on a competitive basis. Applications for the grand funds are due the third Monday in March each year.
Contact Information:
Dr. Dixie Mercer?Phone: 936-468-1142
Email address: dmercer@sfasu.edu
Office:Room 223 Human Services Building
Faculty & Staff
Ms. Frankie Swift -- TVIMr. Barry Stafford - Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS)
Mr. Michael Munro -- TVI
Ms. Deborah 'Cricket' Cady - TVI and COMS
Ms. Tracy Hallak - TVI and COMS
Ms. Donna Wood
Training Program for Professionals in Visual Impairment
PO Box 13019-SFA Station
Nacogdoches, TX 75962
Additional Information
For additional information click on the following link for a Q&A and links to the applications needed:http://faculty.sfasu.edu/mercerdixie/program_page2/home.htm
PCOE Program Report
PCOEAnnualProgramReviewChart.docx