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Invitation to Join CTC Subcommittees
by jimorris0116＠gmail.com 07 Feb '26

07 Feb '26

Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD) Invitation to Join CTC Subcommittees: Advancing Empowerment for Our Clients and Students The Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD), with the official endorsement of the National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB), is excited to announce expanded opportunities for engagement and service within the Structured Discovery profession and community. We warmly invite qualified professionals who hold certifications such as the National Orientation & Mobility Certification (NOMC), National Certification in Rehabilitation Teaching for the Blind (NCRTB), or National Certification in Access Technology for the Blind (NCATB) to serve on one of our specialized TCSD subcommittees. Current subcommittees include the Mentoring subcommittee, Recruitment subcommittee, Education subcommittee, as well as any additional subcommittees that may be established in the future. These subcommittees are instrumental in shaping the future of our profession by driving initiatives that empower individuals who are blind to achieve their fullest potential and realize their aspirations. Serving on these subcommittees provides a valuable platform to influence best practices, foster professional excellence, and contribute to the continued advancement of rehabilitation services. To be considered for involvement, interested candidates must complete an application. All submissions will undergo a comprehensive review by the selection committee, with final approval made by the leadership of NBPCB and the TCSD. To be eligible for the 2026 service year, all applications must be received by March 9th, 2026. Selected members will receive a thorough orientation outlining their roles and responsibilities. As these are active working subcommittees, members are expected to fully engage and make meaningful contributions toward advancing our shared mission. Additionally, all committee members must review and agree to the committee's expectations and sign a confidentiality agreement to uphold the integrity of our work. To apply or learn more about this opportunity, please contact Jimmy Morris, Chair of the TCSD, by email at jimorris0116(a)gmail.com <mailto:jimorris0116@gmail.com> to express your interest. Upon receiving your inquiry, Jimmy will provide you with the application form along with any additional information or guidance you may need regarding the process and expectations for subcommittee participation. Should you have any questions, feel free to reach out via email. We look forward to your involvement as we work together to advance the field and better serve our community. Jimmy Morris Trainer's Committee for Structured Discovery Chair jimorris0116(a)gmail.com <mailto:jimorris0116@gmail.com> Review Date:1/31/25 (Colin Wong, President)

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FW: Blindness Skills Instructor Position at the Orientation Center in Alamogordo, NM
by admin＠nbpcb.org 06 Feb '26

06 Feb '26

We've been asked to distribute this job opportunity. This is an OFFICIAL NOTIFICATION of invitation to applicants for a Blindness Skills Instructor (CFB #10113091) in our Alamogordo Orientation Center Location. ALL applications MUST be filed online at: https://hcm.share.nm.gov <https://hcm.share.nm.gov/> Applications for this position not filed through the SPO website WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED. Salary $21.96 - $32.94 Hourly $45,680 - $68,520 Annually This position is a Pay Band C5 Posting Details THIS POSTING WILL BE USED FOR ONGOING RECRUITMENT AND MAY CLOSE AT ANY TIME. APPLICANT LISTS MAY BE SCREENED MORE THAN ONCE. SHARE is currently working on a system update for applicants who use screen readers. A screen reader is a software application that enables people with visual impairments to use a computer. Screen readers work closely with the computers Operating System to provide information about icons, menus, dialogue boxes, files and folders. If you are applying with a screen reader and need assistance, please contact Chelsea Talamante at (505) 476-4460. Why does the job exist? This position will provide blindness skills training, primarily training in braille to blind and visually impaired individuals at the New Mexico Commission for the Blind Orientation Center, in Alamogordo. How does it get done? The incumbent provides instruction in braille to adult and youth students at the Orientation Center, develops, maintains, and revises curriculum; and creates and provides staff training. Who are the customers? Transition age students and adults who are blind or visually impaired and who are seeking to become employed, and Professionals in the field of blindness who are receiving training. Ideal Candidate Individual possesses a Bachelor's Degree with three years of related experience. Related experience would include in-depth experience with basic computer technology, assistive technology for blind and low vision individuals, and skills training, in addition to the ability to teach cane travel, Braille, communication skills, and other skills related to activities of daily living for blind and low vision individuals Minimum Qualification Associate Degree in Education, Social Science, Behavioral Science, or related field and two (2) years of experience in a field such as orientation and mobility, vocational rehabilitation counseling, education, social work, gerontology, family and community services, child development, home economics related to families, or services for people with disabilities. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling four (4) years may substitute for the required education and experience. Employment Requirements Background Investigation Working Conditions Work requires daily organization and management of the Braille classroom which includes a library of Braille books and related materials; regular exposure to personal computers, printers, scanners, refreshable braille displays and embossers; and requires some telephone usage. Duties require lifting walking, standing, sitting, bending, and crawling. Regularly work with individuals with secondary disabilities, some of which result in challenging behaviors. Occasionally exposed to service animals. While this job requires work at a singular location with weekly assignments on activities outside the Orientation Center, occasional overnight travel. Bargaining Unit Position This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement and all terms/conditions of that agreement apply and must be adhered to. Jamie Sibson, MRC Orientation Center Director New Mexico Commission for the Blind 408 North White Sands Blvd. Alamogordo, New Mexico 88310 Email: <mailto:Jamie.sibson@cfb.nm.gov> Jamie.sibson(a)cfb.nm.gov Office Phone: 505-383-2291 Cell Phone: 505-670-1727 This email may contain confidential or privileged information meant only for the intended recipient. Any use, distribution, copying, or disclosure by any other person is strictly prohibited. If you have received this email in error, please notify the sender immediately and delete all copies of this email and any accompanying attachments.

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Structured Discovery Re-Certification Training
by jimorris0116＠gmail.com 01 Feb '26

01 Feb '26

Structured Discovery Professionals Training As part of our ongoing commitment to professional development, the Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD) Education Subcommittee is pleased to offer an engaging training session focused on the NBPCB Structured Discovery Re-Certification process. This session will clearly explain the requirements, answer your questions, and provide practical strategies for managing and tracking your re-certification progress. Title: Date: Thursday, March 5, 2026 Time: 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM Eastern Presenter: Maria Morais Please click the link below to register for the event by March 3, 2026: https://nbpcb.org/guestreg Registration is required to attend this meeting and to receive CEUs. The Zoom link will be distributed after registration is completed. About the Session: This training was developed in response to the many questions we receive-from newly certified professionals to seasoned veterans in the field. With changes to the re-certification process implemented in 2023, our goal is to ensure you have clear, accurate, and up-to-date information. The session will break down the re-certification categories and review all required forms needed to successfully apply. Registration Deadline: March 3, 2026 We hope you can join us for this important, informative, and confidence-building training! Warm Regards, Jimmy Morris MA, NOMCT

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FW: Last call to apply for OMSA’s 2026 Pay it Forward Funds!
by jackson.dezman＠gmail.com 27 Jan '26

27 Jan '26

Good morning, I serve on the board of OMSA along with Kristen and Jimmy. Would love to see some applications from NOMC’s come through for these funds this year. The deadline is fast approaching, so please consider applying with your creative ideas! Thanks, Dezman From: Orientation and Mobility Specialist Association <oandmassociation(a)136995985.mailchimpapp.com> Sent: Monday, January 26, 2026 9:00 AM To: jackson.dezman(a)gmail.com Subject: Last call to apply for OMSA’s 2026 Pay it Forward Funds! <https://mailchi.mp/ac2bbeff2a67/upcoming-ceu-event-essentials-of-being-an-i…> View this email in your browser 2026 OMSA Pay It Forward Funds Supporting special projects to promote O&M For our third year, OMSA is upping the ante and giving away more cash! We have two awards, up to $1000 each, to give away, and we're looking for any individuals or groups who could benefit! Know of a group or individual who is doing something cool in the field and could use a little extra cash to grow their idea? Or, do you yourself have a project in mind you'd like to get off the ground? The more innovative the better! Let OMSA Help! Nominate that co-worker, friend, parent, organization, or even yourself to receive OMSA's Pay It Forward Funds! For example, know someone who'd love to attend a conference but needs help with the registration fees? Or are you a teacher who would love some funding for a cool O&M field trip or activity? Is there someone in your life who's not currently an O&M Instructor or GDMI but would like to learn more about the profession and has a chance to attend an O&M event? Is there a parent who'd love some additional funding to help their kiddo be involved in more community activities? The list is not exhaustive--all are great examples of how OMSA funds can make a difference! <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&…> Check out OMSA's YouTube page to learn about past winners! Nominate that person or group by submitting a short video clip describing what your nominee would do with a little extra cash! Winners will be selected by the OMSA Membership Committee. How to apply: -Eligible activities are those that promote and support the field of O&M -Upload a video clip (no longer than 2 minutes) describing how the funds will be spent, along with a short application here: <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&…> OMSA Pay it Forward 2026 Nomination Form -An <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&…> OMSA Media Consent form for everyone who appears in your video must also be submitted Who can apply/be nominated: -Any OMSA member may submit a nomination (however current OMSA Board or Committee Members will not be eligible to nominate or be nominated for this award) -The recipient does NOT need to be a current OMSA member, or even an O&M Instructor Important Dates: -Applications will be accepted until 5 pm Eastern 1/31/2026. Only full applications will be considered (video, application, and media consent forms). No applications submitted after this deadline will be considered -The applicant will be notified by 4/1/26 with an OMSA invoice for funds to be appropriately dispersed to the winner -Winner will be asked to submit a subsequent video by the following April (4/1/27), demonstrating the results of their project, which will then be posted via email blast, YouTube, and Facebook The following rubric will be utilized by each member of the committee to score each submission: OMSA Pay it Forward Scoring Rubric 1. How well does the application meet the goals and intent of the Pay it Forward Fund? Score 1-7 2. How innovative is the proposed activity? Score 1-7 3. How much does this project benefit the actual recipient(s) of the funds? Score 1-7 4. How impactful will this be to enhance, promote, and encourage professionals in the O&M field? Score 1-7 5. How impactful might this project be regarding the perceptions of the general public towards people who are blind and promote knowledge of O&M? Score 1-7 6. What’s the potential of this project to promote OMSA membership? Score 1-7 7. What is the potential of this project to encourage OMSA members to actively participate in OMSA events and committees? Score 1-7 <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&…> <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/track/click?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&…> Copyright © 2026 Orientation and Mobility Specialist Association, All rights reserved. You are receiving this email because you opted in via our website. Our mailing address is: Orientation and Mobility Specialist Association 10010 Winegar Rd Laingsburg, MI 48848-9326 <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/vcard?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&id=e8f…> Add us to your address book Want to change how you receive these emails? You can <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/profile?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&id=e…> update your preferences or <https://usomsa.us8.list-manage.com/unsubscribe?u=9235a212875cf5792e924e4f8&…> unsubscribe from this list. <https://login.mailchimp.com/signup/email-referral/?aid=9235a212875cf5792e92…>

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Now Hiring: Nonvisual Skills Instructor – Access Technology Tucson Campus Saavi Services for the Blind
by Joanne Williams 22 Jan '26

22 Jan '26

Now Hiring: Nonvisual Skills Instructor – Access Technology Please forward to anyone you think may be a good fit for this position! Saavi Services for the Blind is seeking a knowledgeable, mission-driven professional to join our team as a Nonvisual Skills Instructor – Access Technology. This position plays a key role in empowering blind adults and youth to gain confidence, independence, and high expectations through mastery of nonvisual access technology and foundational blindness skills. Saavi Services for the Blind delivers nationally recognized training rooted in Structured Discovery and a positive philosophy of blindness. This position offers an opportunity to support life-changing instruction in a dynamic, student-centered environment. Position Overview Based in Tucson, the Nonvisual Skills Instructor – Access Technology provides one-on-one and small-group instruction in screen readers, braille displays, OCR tools, note-taking devices, and mobile access technology. The instructor also supports additional nonvisual skill areas including braille, daily living skills, cane travel reinforcement, and job readiness training. Instruction takes place both inside the training center and in the community, with an emphasis on real-world application, strong problem-solving, and high expectations for students of all ages. All work is grounded in Structured Discovery, strong nonvisual skills, and a positive philosophy of blindness. Key Responsibilities * Teach access technology using screen readers, braille displays, OCR, and braille note-takers on commonly used desktop and mobile operating systems. * Provide instruction using industry standard applications such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, web-based apps and email clients. * Conduct home-based training and community workshops as needed. * Recommend technology and equipment that support the student’s employment goals. * Provide instruction in additional nonvisual skill areas as assigned (Braille, O&M, ILS, job readiness, academics) * Maintain case notes, progress reports, and monthly documentation * Reinforce strong cane travel and nonvisual problem-solving skills * Assist students in community activities and encourage age-appropriate social development Qualifications * Associate’s degree in Education, Human Services, Computer-related field, or similar * Minimum five years’ experience using access technology in academic or workplace settings * Minimum two years teaching blind adults * Proficiency with JAWS, NVDA, ZoomText/Fusion, OCR, screen magnification, and braille devices * Strong ability to troubleshoot access technology and computer systems * Structured Discovery training preferred * Certification (NBPCB or ACVREP) OR a related blindness rehabilitation degree OR 3+ years teaching blind individuals using Structured Discovery Compensation & Professional Development Salary Range: $50,000–$60,000 annually, depending on experience SAAVI offers health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with employer match; generous vacation and flexible holidays; and ongoing professional development. Based in Tucson, Arizona — relocation support available. Apply Today If you are passionate about access technology, nonvisual skills training, and empowering blind adults and youth to achieve independence, we encourage you to apply. Submit your résumé and cover letter to: Joanne Williams – jwilliams(a)saavi.us<mailto:jwilliams@saavi.us> Joanne Williams, M.A., NOMC, NCRTB Chief Quality Officer SAAVI Services for the Blind 3350 E. Grant Road Tucson, AZ 85716 Office: 520-795-1331 ext. 333 Email: jwilliams(a)saavi.us<mailto:jgabias@saavi.us> Expect more, Achieve more, Become more! www.saavi.us<http://www.saavi.us/>

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Saavi is HIRING! Statewide Children and Youth Services Manager
by Joanne Williams 06 Jan '26

06 Jan '26

Hello everyone, Please forward to anyone you think may be a good fit for this position! Saavi Services for the Blind is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to serve as our Statewide Children and Youth Services Manager. This role provides statewide leadership for children and youth programming while also coordinating national programs that serve blind students from across the country. Through a strong partnership with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), Saavi Services for the Blind delivers nationally recognized programs that welcome students and families from across the United States. This position offers a rare opportunity to combine local leadership, statewide coordination, and national program delivery. Position Overview Based in Phoenix, the Children and Youth Services Manager oversees after-school, weekend, summer, and transition programming; supervises staff including the Tucson Children and Youth Coordinator; and coordinates Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). The role also supports seasonal and grant-funded programs such as Extended School Year Program (ESY), GENIUS Camp, Ready Set Go (RSG) Transition Summer Camp and serves as a primary point of contact for families, VR counselors, and partners across states. All work is grounded in structured discovery, strong nonvisual skills, and a positive philosophy of blindness. Key Responsibilities * Provide statewide leadership for children and youth services * Supervise and mentor children and youth staff * Lead Phoenix-based youth programming * Oversee Pre-ETS and transition services * Facilitate national programs in partnership with the National Federation of the Blind * Serve as a primary contact for families, partners, and VR counselors * Model strong nonvisual skills, problem-solving, and inclusion * Represent Saavi in professional development and national initiatives Qualifications * Associate's degree in Education or related field, or equivalent experience * Minimum two years' experience in blindness education or rehabilitation * Experience with youth programming and program development preferred * Strong knowledge of child and adolescent development * Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills * Demonstrated positive philosophy of blindness Compensation & Professional Development Salary Range: $55,000-$65,000 annually, depending on experience SAAVI offers health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k) with employer match; generous vacation and flexible holidays; and robust professional development, including paid attendance at the National Federation of the Blind National Convention each year. Based in Phoenix, Arizona - relocation stipend available. Apply Today If you are passionate about empowering blind children, leading impactful programs, and working at both a statewide and national level, we encourage you to apply. Submit your résumé and cover letter to: Joanne Williams, jwilliams(a)saavi.us<mailto:jwilliams@saavi.us> All the best, Joanne Williams, M.A., NOMC, NCRTB Chief Quality Officer SAAVI Services for the Blind 3350 E. Grant Road Tucson, AZ 85716 Office: 520-795-1331 ext. 333 Email: jwilliams(a)saavi.us<mailto:jgabias@saavi.us> Expect more, Achieve more, Become more! www.saavi.us<http://www.saavi.us/>

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NOMCT Committee Announces Name Change and Rebrand
by jimorris0116＠gmail.com 02 Jan '26

02 Jan '26

Dear colleagues, We are pleased to share an important update. The National Orientation & Mobility Trainers Committee (NOMCT) has officially changed its name to the Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD). This new name reflects the growth and evolution of our committee over the past several years. Our work has expanded to support all the National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) certifications-including National Orientation Mobility Certification (NOMC), National Certification in Rehabilitation Teaching for the Blind (NCRTB), and National Certification in Access Technology for the Blind (NCATB). The updated name better represents the unified mission we serve across all certification areas. The Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD) is a committee tasked by the National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB) to develop projects, strategic initiatives, and training best practices that support both new and current structured discovery professionals. Our goal is to strengthen professional excellence while promoting the philosophy that blindness is not a barrier to success. In the coming months, we will be announcing new initiatives focused on expanding professional development opportunities, increasing member engagement, and supporting leadership growth across the NBPCB community. We remain committed to providing tools and guidance that help you empower students to live the lives they want. If you have questions, suggestions, or thoughts including ideas for future professional development opportunities please feel free to contact Jimmy Morris, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery Chair, at <mailto:jimorris0116@gmail.com> jimorris0116(a)gmail.com or 434-547-2720. We look forward to continuing this work together and making a meaningful impact. Warm regards, Trainers Committee for Structured Discovery (TCSD)

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Distribution of Internal/external Vacancy Announcements #25-152 through #25-158
by Peret, Maurice S 24 Dec '25

24 Dec '25

Ho'opono Services for the Blind New Visions Supervisor position finally posted: Please find attached the Internal Vacancy Announcements (IVA) #25-152 through #25-158. Internal recruitment announcements are also posted on the DHS/HR portal, and certain work sites in HPHA and HYCF will circulate and post a copy of the internal recruitment announcements for their workers. A PDF copy of the HRD 315A, Competitive Internal Recruitment, Rev. 7/2018, is attached for your use. In addition to submitting your application packet to HR/RES via the U.S. mail, messenger or walk-in, you can now submit a PDF copy of your application packet to HR/RES via email at: res(a)dhs.hawaii.gov<mailto:res@dhs.hawaii.gov>. Applications must be received by no later than 11:59 p.m. on the closing date of the recruitment. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Thank you, Raymond Ngo Department of Human Services Human Resources Office/RES Email: rngo(a)dhs.hawaii.gov<mailto:rngo@dhs.hawaii.gov> Phone: (808) 586-5016 Fax: (808) 586-5313 NOTICE: This information and attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under state and federal law. If you have received this communication and/or attachments in error, please notify the sender via email immediately and destroy all electronic and paper copies. NOTICE: This information and attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under state and federal law. If you have received this communication and/or attachments in error, please notify the sender via email immediately and destroy all electronic and paper copies. NOTICE: This information and attachments are intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed, and may contain information that is privileged and/or confidential. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, any dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited and may be punishable under state and federal law. If you have received this communication and/or attachments in error, please notify the sender via email immediately and destroy all electronic and paper copies.

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Help me build my ethics argument
by Jane Lansaw 31 Oct '25

31 Oct '25

Hi Listers, As many of you know, I work for Oklahoma Department of rehabilitation services, an agency not exactly known for supporting the structured discovery Learning philosophy. Fortunately, I’m itinerant and when I’m out in the field, there is nobody to criticize my use of structured discovery with my clients. Here’s my ethical problem. They want to send me out into the field to give sunglasses to people who are not legally blind. Yes I know our people don’t generally handle filters because we are trying to help people optimize vision instead of maximize vision but in my job I have to do filters. OK, I can do that. Problem is now they are giving me referrals for people who are not even legally blind. It started with people who just had cataracts removed and needed filters to deal with bright light and sunlight. I thought I had my managers persuaded that this is not a blindness issue and these people should go to vision clinics or even just to Walmart to pick up some filters on their own to satisfy their needs. After all, I’m a highly trained Blindness Professional. Later they started sending people who are not just post cataract, but have other pathologies which allow them to drive with the blessing of the doctor and vocational counselor and just want sunglasses for better contrast. My problem is I don’t want to help anybody drive better. I’m not teaching driver’s ed in high school. I also think it’s not ethical for a blindness specialist to help a sighted person drive better. My manager sent me the policy manual and said there was nothing in it to help me stop these referrals of people are not legally blind. Guys I need some ammunition. Is there anything I can use in our code of ethics to help me stop getting these “Junk referrals “? I’m really getting tired of this, and I also think somebody could get hurt by taking my word for a pair of sunglasses. They have some kind of pathology that makes them eligible to be a client at Services for the blind and visually impaired in the first place. My giving them sunglasses for better contrast could just get them into more trouble. Jane Lansaw NOMC Sent from my iPhone > On Oct 23, 2025, at 2:50 PM, NBPCB Office via NOMC <members(a)lists.nbpcb.org> wrote: > > National Blindness Professional Certification Board > > The Authority on Structured Discovery Instruction > > > > Over the past few months, the National Blindness Professional Certification > Board has received numerous inquiries on what the term Structured Discovery, > certified Structured Discovery Training Center, and Structured Discovery > Instructor/Professional mean. The NBPCB believes and advocates that > Structured Discovery is the best form of instruction and methodology to > empower blind people when learning non-visual skills for independence. In > celebration of blindness achievement month and white cane awareness day that > passed on October 15th, the NBPCB is publishing a white paper/position paper > on what defines Structured Discovery, which is attached here and can be > freely distributed. For individuals who have graduated from a certified > Structured Discovery Training Center or who have worked with a Structured > Discovery certified instructor, one can be confident that they have had the > best form of instruction possible and have achieved a significant > accomplishment; as Structured Discovery Training is both challenging and > rewarding due to the new pathways, expectations, skills, and philosophy on > blindness that they have developed throughout their training. > > > > At present, NBPCB oversees three certifications which are based on > Structured Discovery Training -- the National Orientation and Mobility > Certification (NOMC), National Certification in Rehabilitation Teaching for > the Blind (NCRTB), and the National Certification in Access Technology for > the Blind (NCATB). Additionally, the board oversees one credential that > measures braille proficiency -- the National Certification in Unified > English Braille (NCUEB). NBPCB also credentials Community-based > Rehabilitation training Programs which conduct immersion and training of > Structured Discovery Professionals and provide adjustment training for those > experiencing significant sight loss - Certified Structured Discovery > Training Centers (CSDTC) > > > > The National Blindness Professional Certification Board wants to thank all > the professionals, instructors, and educators who have obtained their NOMC, > NCRTB, NCATB, and NCUEB. These instructors have been certified to teach > using the Structured Discovery model and continue to uphold the high > expectations that the NBPCB expects out of their certified instructors. To > find out if someone is certified by the NBPCB, go to this link. > > https://nbpcb.org/pages/lookup.php > > > > In addition, we want to thank our certified Structured Discovery Training > Centers for providing an environment and culture that embodies and > represents the teachings of Structured Discovery. Structured Discovery > Training Centers transform lives, redefines expectations for blind people, > and are the epitome of quality blindness training across the world. To see > the7 certified Structured Discovery Training Centers who have met the rigor, > quality, and standards set by the NBPCB, follow the below link. > > https://nbpcb.org/pages/NBPCBcenterapproval.php > > > > To learn more about what defines Structured Discovery, please read the > attached white paper/position statement or visit our website. > > https://nbpcb.org/ > > > > If you are looking for a career in changing the lives of blind people, > please reach out to the NBPCB as obtaining a certification is the first step > to a fulfilling career in blindness. > > > > > > Happy blindness achievement month and white cane awareness day, > > National Blindness Professional Certification Board > > > > NBPCB Office > > PO Box 2373 > > Ruston LA 71273 > > 318 299-7340 > > <mailto:admin@nbpcb.org> admin(a)nbpcb.org > > <http://www.nbpcb.org/> www.nbpcb.org > > <https://www.nbpcb.org/pages/lookup.php> Click here to verify the status of > NBPCB certified professionals > > Sign up for the Structured Discovery Announcement mailing list > <https://lists.nbpcb.org/mailman3/lists/sdteaching.lists.nbpcb.org/> here. > > > > <2025 NBPCB Position Statement on Structured Discovery.pdf> > _______________________________________________ > NOMC mailing list -- members(a)lists.nbpcb.org > To unsubscribe send an email to members-leave(a)lists.nbpcb.org

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Re: Help me build my ethics argument
by Jane Lansaw 30 Oct '25

30 Oct '25

Hi Matt, Thank you for your lengthy response. I understood some of it and plan to sit down and parce it out later when it’s not getting close to bedtime. I have been out of Louisiana tech for 25 years and I’ve lost a lot of my ivory tower speak. I guess because I don’t have to write 25 page papers anymore. I Know there’s something valuable in all of this so when I have time, I’m going to sit down and take it apart and put it back together. No offense, but Metler’s cognitive learning theory isn’t as chewy as this email. Thanks for the attempt and I’m sure I’ll get a few good nuggets out of it. I’ll just keep trying. You have to remember that old timers think more slowly. Jane Lansaw NOMC Sent from my iPhone > On Oct 30, 2025, at 3:42 PM, matt.hackert(a)gmail.com wrote: > > I'm not sure if all of this is relevant or helpful, but just some thoughts. Take whatever you feel might be of use: > Short take: this is weird. It sounds like scope-creep from “blindness rehab” into “retail sunglasses concierge,” with a side order of liability (especially when driving is involved). I feel like you’ve got solid ethical ground to push back, even if the NBPCB manual doesn’t spell out “no sunglasses for sighted drivers.” > > Here’s a clean way to frame it. > > What’s off here (in plain English) > > Role confusion: A blindness rehab specialist being tasked to kit out non-legally blind folks with sunglasses—often for driving—is outside the core Structured Discovery remit (nonvisual skills, attitudes, expectations). > > Competence & safety: Recommending filters that may affect visual performance while driving is closer to optometry/low-vision clinical practice than to SD instruction. If something goes wrong, your name is in the record. > > Resource stewardship: Public VR resources intended for people with significant vision loss are being spent on post-cataract or otherwise sighted drivers who could buy sunglasses at Walmart. That’s inequitable and dilutes mission. > > Informed consent & risk: If a state employee hands someone “better contrast” lenses, a reasonable person might infer professional clearance for driving. That’s dangerous signaling. > > Ethical hooks you can cite (without needing chapter-and-verse) > > Even if the NBPCB code doesn’t have a line item for “filters for drivers,” these generic, cross-disciplinary principles are widely accepted in rehab/education codes and agency policies: > > Do no harm / Nonmaleficence: Don’t provide interventions likely to increase risk (e.g., emboldening a marginal driver). > > Competence: Operate within your training and role. You’re not practicing optometry, doing glare/contrast clinical assessments, or prescribing driving aids. > > Role fidelity / Scope of practice: SD pros teach nonvisual skills and adjustment to blindness—not performance aids for sighted drivers. > > Informed consent & accurate representation: Avoid implying that state-issued filters are evaluated or approved for driving safety. > > Justice / Resource allocation: Use limited public funds for those with qualifying, substantial impairments; avoid “junk referrals.” > > Documentation & accountability: If the policy is silent, that’s a risk—your agency should not be improvising clinical-ish services in that silence. > > What to ask for (concretely, with your manager) > > Make it procedural—not ideological. > > Written scope clarification: “Please provide written guidance clarifying whether Services for the Blind is authorized to provide filters to non-legally-blind individuals, and whether use for driving is contemplated.” > > Eligibility screen: Require documentation of significant visual impairment (not just recent cataract surgery) before any blindness-program service. > > Clinical sign-off: If the agency insists on filters for drivers, require a low-vision/optometry evaluation specifying tint, transmission %, use-case, and that it’s not a driving aid unless expressly cleared in writing by the clinician. > > Driving disclaimer: Standardize a written disclaimer: “This device has not been evaluated by this agency for driving. Consult your eye-care professional. Do not rely on this device to improve driving safety.” > > Referral pathway: Direct non-legally-blind, post-op glare cases to community optics/low-vision clinics (and provide a handout of options). > > Data & safety: Add a simple screening form (diagnosis, acuity, VF, photophobia complaint, current license status) and document refusal where outside scope. > > Escalation: Ask for an ethics or risk-management review. If none exists, request one specifically on “filter provision to non-legally-blind drivers.” > > If they force you to do some of it (minimize your exposure) > > Limit to non-driving use cases (outdoor glare for mobility, outdoor chores). > > Use neutral language (“general outdoor comfort”), never “better contrast for driving.” > > Provide off-the-shelf options and a referral list; avoid selecting specific driving tints. > > Always give the written disclaimer and document that you advised against using for driving without clinician guidance. > > A concise, professional reply you could post (or send to your manager) > > Feel free to copy/paste and tweak tone. > > Thanks for raising this—there are two issues here: eligibility and scope. Structured Discovery professionals teach nonvisual skills and adjustment to blindness; we are not clinicians and we don’t prescribe or evaluate devices for driving. > > Providing filters to individuals who are not legally blind—particularly when the stated goal is better driving contrast—creates (1) role-confusion with optometry/low-vision practice, (2) potential safety and liability if recipients infer state approval for driving, and (3) resource-allocation concerns within a blindness program. > > I’m requesting written guidance that: > > Clarifies eligibility (documentation of significant visual impairment), > > Requires a clinician’s specification if filters are considered for any task with safety implications (including driving), and > > Standardizes a written disclaimer that our agency does not evaluate or approve filters for driving. > > In the meantime, I will refer non-legally-blind, post-cataract glare cases to community optometry/low-vision clinics and provide general information about commercially available options, while avoiding recommendations framed around driving performance. > > This approach aligns with basic ethics—nonmaleficence, competence, role fidelity, informed consent, and just stewardship of limited blindness-program resources—without foreclosing access to appropriate clinical care for those individuals. > > Extra “ammunition” talking points (quick hits) > > Driving is a regulated activity. Any aid framed as improving driving should come with clinical assessment and, where appropriate, DMV/OT-driver-rehab context—not a field visit from a blindness instructor. > > Filters change luminance/contrast in non-linear ways. Wrong tint can reduce hazard detection. That’s a clinical call. > > Mission drift hurts your actual clientele. Every hour spent matching tints for sighted drivers is an hour not spent on cane travel, nonvisual problem-solving, braille, etc. > > Documentation protects everyone. If the policy is silent, you shouldn’t be improvising medical-ish recommendations. > > > -----Original Message----- > From: Jane Lansaw via NOMC <members(a)lists.nbpcb.org> > Sent: Thursday, October 30, 2025 12:32 PM > To: admin(a)nbpcb.org > Cc: members(a)lists.nbpcb.org > Subject: [NOMC] Help me build my ethics argument > > Hi Listers, > As many of you know, I work for Oklahoma Department of rehabilitation services, an agency not exactly known for supporting the structured discovery Learning philosophy. Fortunately, I’m itinerant and when I’m out in the field, there is nobody to criticize my use of structured discovery with my clients. > Here’s my ethical problem. They want to send me out into the field to give sunglasses to people who are not legally blind. Yes I know our people don’t generally handle filters because we are trying to help people optimize vision instead of maximize vision but in my job I have to do filters. OK, I can do that. > Problem is now they are giving me referrals for people who are not even legally blind. It started with people who just had cataracts removed and needed filters to deal with bright light and sunlight. I thought I had my managers persuaded that this is not a blindness issue and these people should go to vision clinics or even just to Walmart to pick up some filters on their own to satisfy their needs. After all, I’m a highly trained Blindness Professional. Later they started sending people who are not just post cataract, but have other pathologies which allow them to drive with the blessing of the doctor and vocational counselor and just want sunglasses for better contrast. My problem is I don’t want to help anybody drive better. I’m not teaching driver’s ed in high school. > I also think it’s not ethical for a blindness specialist to help a sighted person drive better. My manager sent me the policy manual and said there was nothing in it to help me stop these referrals of people are not legally blind. Guys I need some ammunition. > Is there anything I can use in our code of ethics to help me stop getting these “Junk referrals “? > I’m really getting tired of this, and I also think somebody could get hurt by taking my word for a pair of sunglasses. They have some kind of pathology that makes them eligible to be a client at Services for the blind and visually impaired in the first place. My giving them sunglasses for better contrast could just get them into more trouble. > > > Jane Lansaw NOMC > Sent from my iPhone > >> On Oct 23, 2025, at 2:50 PM, NBPCB Office via NOMC <members(a)lists.nbpcb.org> wrote: >> >> National Blindness Professional Certification Board >> >> The Authority on Structured Discovery Instruction >> >> >> >> Over the past few months, the National Blindness Professional >> Certification Board has received numerous inquiries on what the term >> Structured Discovery, certified Structured Discovery Training Center, >> and Structured Discovery Instructor/Professional mean. The NBPCB >> believes and advocates that Structured Discovery is the best form of >> instruction and methodology to empower blind people when learning >> non-visual skills for independence. In celebration of blindness >> achievement month and white cane awareness day that passed on October >> 15th, the NBPCB is publishing a white paper/position paper on what >> defines Structured Discovery, which is attached here and can be freely >> distributed. For individuals who have graduated from a certified >> Structured Discovery Training Center or who have worked with a >> Structured Discovery certified instructor, one can be confident that >> they have had the best form of instruction possible and have achieved >> a significant accomplishment; as Structured Discovery Training is both >> challenging and rewarding due to the new pathways, expectations, skills, and philosophy on blindness that they have developed throughout their training. >> >> >> >> At present, NBPCB oversees three certifications which are based on >> Structured Discovery Training -- the National Orientation and Mobility >> Certification (NOMC), National Certification in Rehabilitation >> Teaching for the Blind (NCRTB), and the National Certification in >> Access Technology for the Blind (NCATB). Additionally, the board >> oversees one credential that measures braille proficiency -- the >> National Certification in Unified English Braille (NCUEB). NBPCB also >> credentials Community-based Rehabilitation training Programs which >> conduct immersion and training of Structured Discovery Professionals >> and provide adjustment training for those experiencing significant >> sight loss - Certified Structured Discovery Training Centers (CSDTC) >> >> >> >> The National Blindness Professional Certification Board wants to thank >> all the professionals, instructors, and educators who have obtained >> their NOMC, NCRTB, NCATB, and NCUEB. These instructors have been >> certified to teach using the Structured Discovery model and continue >> to uphold the high expectations that the NBPCB expects out of their >> certified instructors. To find out if someone is certified by the NBPCB, go to this link. >> >> https://nbpcb.org/pages/lookup.php >> >> >> >> In addition, we want to thank our certified Structured Discovery >> Training Centers for providing an environment and culture that >> embodies and represents the teachings of Structured Discovery. >> Structured Discovery Training Centers transform lives, redefines >> expectations for blind people, and are the epitome of quality >> blindness training across the world. To see >> the7 certified Structured Discovery Training Centers who have met the >> rigor, quality, and standards set by the NBPCB, follow the below link. >> >> https://nbpcb.org/pages/NBPCBcenterapproval.php >> >> >> >> To learn more about what defines Structured Discovery, please read the >> attached white paper/position statement or visit our website. >> >> https://nbpcb.org/ >> >> >> >> If you are looking for a career in changing the lives of blind people, >> please reach out to the NBPCB as obtaining a certification is the >> first step to a fulfilling career in blindness. >> >> >> >> >> >> Happy blindness achievement month and white cane awareness day, >> >> National Blindness Professional Certification Board >> >> >> >> NBPCB Office >> >> PO Box 2373 >> >> Ruston LA 71273 >> >> 318 299-7340 >> >> <mailto:admin@nbpcb.org> admin(a)nbpcb.org >> >> <http://www.nbpcb.org/> www.nbpcb.org >> >> <https://www.nbpcb.org/pages/lookup.php> Click here to verify the >> status of NBPCB certified professionals >> >> Sign up for the Structured Discovery Announcement mailing list >> <https://lists.nbpcb.org/mailman3/lists/sdteaching.lists.nbpcb.org/> here. >> >> >> >> <2025 NBPCB Position Statement on Structured Discovery.pdf> >> _______________________________________________ >> NOMC mailing list -- members(a)lists.nbpcb.org To unsubscribe send an >> email to members-leave(a)lists.nbpcb.org > _______________________________________________ > NOMC mailing list -- members(a)lists.nbpcb.org To unsubscribe send an email to members-leave(a)lists.nbpcb.org >

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