Special Education Listserv

Subject: Blind Task Force Vacancies

Source: Heidi Atkins Lieberman, Assistant Commissioner

Intended Audience: Principals, Special Education Administrators, parents, teachers, and others interested in the education and services for students who are blind or visually impaired

Date: January 7, 2008

At this time, we are seeking nominations for individuals to serve on the Blind Task Force.  We currently have vacancies for: one (1) Public School Special Education Administrator, two (2) Public School Building Principals, one (1) employer representative, and one (1) parent representative.  I encourage you to consider making a nomination from your district for one of these positions.  Nomination forms are available at http://www.dese.mo.gov/divspeced/Blind/documents/btfnomform122007.pdf

Missouri law http://www.dese.mo.gov/divspeced/EffectivePractices/VIpageHB401.htm

provides for the establishment of a task force on blind student academic and vocational performance, the Blind Task Force.  Members of the Blind Task Force (BTF) are appointed by the Commissioner of Education, in cooperation with the Director of the Department of Social Services, to represent consumer organizations, parents, teachers, public school special education administrators, school building principals, rehabilitation services for the blind, the Missouri School for the Blind, employers, and others interested in quality services for blind students.

The law provides "This task force shall develop goals and objectives to guide the improvement of special education, related services, vocational training, transition from school to work, rehabilitation services, independent living, and employment outcomes for eligible students"

(Section 162.1130.3 RSMo). 

Please help us find interested, qualified persons dedicated to improving services to students who are Blind or Visually Impaired.