The Functional Vision Assessment

The purpose of a Functional Vision Assessment (FVA) is to: a.) Determine if, and to what degree, visual impairment interferes with learning; b.) Determine the quantity and quality of functional vision; and c.) To provide supporting documentation of the ophthalmologic or optometrist’s visual examination for certification or re-certification eligibility for vision services.

The functional vision report must include identifying information about the student, a data review of school history and educational records, a summary of the student’s eye condition based on information from the eye report, a summary of the student’s clinical low vision evaluation (if appropriate), a summary of interviews and general observations of the student, a summary of the student’s visual functioning, educational implications, an eligibility statement, and recommendations for services.

Low Vision Aids and Training

In 1997, TSB added a Low Vision class to the Elementary Curriculum III program. Optical devices, such as magnifiers, small telescopes, and other lenses, have been used to help children with low vision to read regular print books and chalkboards. TSB’s Low Vision class was designed to reinforce training of optical devices prescribed to our students by Vanderbilt University’s Project PAVE (Providing Access to the Visual Environment). As part of Project PAVE, students receive at no cost a clinical low vision evaluation and prescribed handheld optical devices, spectacle lenses, or therapeutic contact lenses. Project PAVE staff provides initial training of any prescribed optical device while the TSB teachers reinforce instruction through daily living skills as well as academic activities.