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Overview | Services | Eligibility | Florida's Response to the National Agenda | Useful Websites OverviewThe Children’s Program was established by the Florida Legislature in 2000 to facilitate blind and visually impaired children’s fullest participation within the family, community, and educational settings. The program supplements services already offered by the school system to foster the child’s learning and ability to function independently. The student’s parents, family, and caregivers are an integral part of the program to foster independence. Children’s Program Specialists serve eligible children so that they may reach educational and independent living goals. Successful outcomes enable students to transition from school to Vocational Rehabilitation or other appropriate community programs. ServicesSpecific services from kindergarten through high school include:
Students exiting eighth grade or that are 14 years of age may be eligible for our School-to-Work or Transition Program which is sponsored through our Vocational Rehabilitation Program. Florida Blind Services and its community partners have established outcomes relating to expanding the core curriculum of the school system for students who are blind or severely visually impaired. These outcomes include:
Successful transition to high school, appropriate school programs, and/or other community providers EligibilityThere are only two criteria for eligibility:
It is preferred the child have a Social Security Number, legal status in the United States, and Florida residency at least six months of the year. Florida's Response to the National AgendaThe National Agenda is a grassroots effort by professionals and parents to ensure that children with visual impairments, including those with multiple disabilities, are not left behind or overlooked in today’s fast-paced and generic service delivery model. The National Agenda consists of ten goals. Florida has developed a statewide workgroup whose mission is to create a shared vision, an agenda, and an ongoing plan of action for Florida that closely aligns with the National Agenda for the Education of Children and Youths with Visual Impairments, Including those with Multiple Disabilities. Read details of Florida’s response to the National Agenda. Useful WebsitesIf you are the parent or caregiver of an infant or young child who is blind or severely visually impaired, you might find these Florida links helpful. |
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