Missouri State University has been selected as a Blindness Skills Specialist (BSS) site to coordinate services for students with low vision or blindness, assist families and school districts in the Southwest Missouri Region. The BSS office assist in identifying eligible students, coordination of services, and consult with districts and families.

Eligible Students have one of the following (These are verified through an updated eye report from an eye care doctor):

• 20/70 or worse vision in the better eye with best correction.
• A 20-degree field loss in the better eye with best correction.
• Other disabilities along with a visual impairment.

Staff:

• Rebecca Coakley, Low Vision Specialist
• Julie Ituarte, Certified Vision Teacher 
• Cyndee Oppenheim, Certified Vision Teacher
• Andrayah Shermer, Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

The BSS is under the direction of Dr. Chris Craig through the Education Department and the Missouri State University Professional Development Center. Calvin L. Churchwell is the project coordinator and contact person at Missouri State. 

Contact the office at:

Southwest Missouri Blindness Skills Specialist
Missouri State University
Professional Building Room 416
901 S. National
Springfield, Missouri 65804
417-836-5622
blazingcane@sofnet.com