282—22.12(256) Orientation and mobility authorization.

1. 22.12(1)  Initial orientation and mobility authorization. An applicant will:

   1. a. Hold a baccalaureate or master’s degree from an approved state program in orientation and mobility or equivalent coursework.
   2. b. Have completed an approved human relations component.
   3. c. Have completed the exceptional learner program, which will include preparation that contributes to the education of students with disabilities and students who are gifted and talented.

   4. d. Have completed a minimum of 21 semester credit hours in the following areas:

      1. (1) Medical aspects of blindness and visual impairment, including sensory motor.
      2. (2) Psychosocial aspects of blindness and visual impairment.
      3. (3) Child development.
      4. (4) Concept development.
      5. (5) History of orientation and mobility.
      6. (6) Foundations of orientation and mobility.
      7. (7) Orientation and mobility instructional methods and assessments.
      8. (8) Techniques of orientation and mobility.
      9. (9) Research or evidence-based practices in orientation and mobility.
      10. (10) Professional issues in orientation and mobility, including legal issues.
   5. e. Have completed at least 350 hours of fieldwork and training under the supervision of the university program.
2. 22.12(2)  Validity—initial authorization. The initial authorization is valid for three years.

3. 22.12(3)  Standard orientation and mobility license. An applicant will:

   1. a. Complete the requirements set forth in subrule 22.12(1).
   2. b. Verify successful completion of a three-year probationary period.
4. 22.12(4)  Exception. An orientation and mobility specialist is not eligible for any administrator license in either general education or special education.

The holder of this authorization may teach pupils with a visual impairment, including those pupils who are deaf-blind.

[ARC 8820C, IAB 1/22/25, effective 2/26/25]