Service providers will determine caseloads based on the needs of students and will require ongoing professional development for all teachers and orientation and mobility instructors. The availability and quality of vision services are neither constant nor uniform throughout the state.
Some geographic areas have a shortage of teachers or very large caseloads.
Over- extended caseloads create a conflict around meeting basic needs and scheduling services when they are needed, versus when the teacher is available. Ongoing professional growth and development are impeded by obstacles such as travel time, overextended caseloads, access to opportunities, the rural nature of large parts of the state, and a relatively small group of professionals. There needs to be a coordinated effort to identify and and increase funding for ongoing professional development. There is a need for more opportunities for workshops that address specific topics related to visual impairment. To implement models for meeting professional development needs with support from professional organizations, direct service providers and personnel preparation programs.