Urging The Department Of Education To Develop And Implement A Program To Recruit And Employ Qualified Blind Persons To Serve As Orientation And Mobility Instructors And In Other Positions As Teachers Of Visually Impaired Students.
If enacted, SCR1 has the potential to significantly improve the hiring practices of the Department of Education regarding individuals with visual impairments. By encouraging the recruitment of NOMC (National Orientation and Mobility Certification) credentialed professionals, the resolution addresses historical barriers that have disproportionately favored non-blind instructors, thereby diminishing the opportunities for qualified blind individuals to contribute effectively in educational settings. As a result, increased employment of blind instructors could foster a more inclusive educational environment for visually impaired students.
Senate Concurrent Resolution 1 (SCR1) aims to urge the Hawaii Department of Education to develop and implement a program specifically designed to recruit and employ qualified blind individuals as orientation and mobility instructors, as well as other positions for teachers of visually impaired students. The resolution emphasizes the importance of employing individuals who are blind, recognizing their unique experiences and insights in teaching methods like Structured Discovery Cane Travel, which aims to empower blind students with skills for safe mobility and independence. This resolution stems from a significant gap in employment opportunities for blind instructors in the state's educational system.
The general sentiment around SCR1 appears to be supportive, particularly among advocates for the blind community and their respective organizations. The resolution reflects a commitment to promoting equity and inclusion within the educational system. However, there may also be concerns regarding the practical implementation of the proposed recruitment strategies and whether they can lead to tangible changes in hiring practices. Overall, the advocacy aligns with growing recognition of the need for representation and specialized training from individuals with lived experiences.
While SCR1 seeks to make strides towards diversity in educational staffing, discussions may arise around the specific measures that need to be adopted to ensure its success. Notably, the resolution calls for the Department of Education to not only implement an affirmative action program but also to report on its progress and any potential legislative recommendations. This requirement for accountability may serve as a point of contention regarding how effectively the department can navigate recruitment practices while maintaining quality in instructional roles, ultimately affecting its implementation and reception.