blindness compensatory skills; teaching certificates

SB 1824 requires Arizona teachers providing specific services to blind or visually impaired students to hold approved certifications. It mandates that orientation and mobility instructors have nationally recognized certification (or state-approved equivalent), and rehabilitation/independent living skills instructors must have rehabilitation teaching or vision rehabilitation certification. The bill directly affects blind or visually impaired students by ensuring they receive high-quality, aligned instruction through certified educators. Key provisions establish these certification standards and require the state board to set implementation deadlines for teachers. The bill defines "blind pupil" as one who cannot use vision as a primary learning mode and clarifies that compensatory skills help these students access the general curriculum.