AARC TVI

Advanced Specialty Certification for Teachers of the Blind and Visually Impaired (059)

Qualifications:

• Current special education teaching certificate
• Three years of teaching experience
• A desire to work with visually impaired students

A blend of virtual and in-person classes will be utilized, dependent on circumstances.

Do I have to be certified to participate in this AARC?

Yes. An advanced ARC is one in which the applicant holds a valid current teaching certificate in the state of CT.

What certification would I be eligible for as a TVI AARC candidate?

059

My certification has expired. Can I participate?

Unfortunately, no. Your certification must be current and valid in the state of CT.

What qualifications do I need to apply to the AARC?

A Master’s degree is encouraged, but not required. You will also need at least three years professional teaching experience in the last eight years, unless you have recently completed the requirements of an initial ARC.

What is the time commitment?

Approximately 96 hours of direct instruction plus virtual asynchronous braille classes (evenings, Saturdays, and early summer hours.)

Are there parameters for the clinical experiences?

Yes, you must complete some experiences at both the elementary and the secondary levels.

How will a participant’s success be measured?

Participants will complete a series of assignments that will be collected and organized as a portfolio on Schoology. By the end of the coursework, participants will demonstrate competency in each standard through portfolio evaluation.
Additionally, participants will be measured on their clinical and field work experiences as evaluated by their mentor. Other requirements include participating in classes and completing assignments

Who are the mentors?

All of the program instructors are current practitioners. Every participant is assigned to a cohort and a mentor. The mentor will meet with participants regularly, as well as supervise field work and clinical placements. Additionally, the mentors will evaluate all portfolio submissions.

What is a cohort?

A cohort is a group of candidates assigned to work with a mentor in a 6:1 or smaller ratio. Outside of classroom time, candidates work with their mentors and cohort members to complete assignments. Groups may meet in person or virtually.

Where will the classes be held?

Classes are generally held in the Hartford area. Cohort meetings are held in locations arranged for by your cohort mentor and may be held anywhere in the state based on logistics and feasibility of meeting locations.

Where do I do my clinical and field work experiences?

You can complete your practicum at any number of sites across the state, including the school in which you currently work or in your district. Arrangements will be made with the AARC program director and your mentor. CREC and the other Regional Education Service Centers have a number of sites available for you to complete your experiences. You will have experiences working with students at the elementary and secondary levels.

Are there any scholarships or grant money available?

No

What about credits towards a degree?

CREC does not award college credits or a degree for this program. However, some schools and districts have accepted a credit conversion. The credit conversion for the program is 22 credits.

Can you help me find a job once I complete the program of studies?

CREC has many venues to help you locate job opportunities. You can visit our employment opportunities page or work with your mentor to locate local and state-wide openings.