Expanded Core Curriculum
The expanded core curriculum is designed to go beyond the core components of math, reading and writing, and address the essential areas and experiences that are unique only to visually impaired persons (Pugh & Erin, 1999). Included in these areas are Compensatory Academic skills, Social Development, Recreation and Leisure, Orientation and Mobility, Independent Living skills, Technology, Career Development, and Visual Efficiency skills (Hatlen, 1996). These skills are often learned incidentally through modeling for sighted persons, but for those with visual loss there are few opportunities for exposure. In full support of The National Agenda for the Education of Children and Youth with Visual Impairment, GMS recognizes the Expanded Core Curriculum as a significant part of its educational program, and believes these areas should be taught in addition to the core curriculum while being infused at every opportunity.
Compensatory Academic Skills
Concept Development, Communication Modes (Braille, print, other), Time Management, Development of Organizational Skills
Orientation & Mobility
Spatial Awareness, Body Image, Safety, Independent Travel
Social Interaction Skills
Physical Skills, Assertiveness Training, Social Concepts
Independent Living Skills
Eating Skills, Food Preparation/ retrieval, Hygiene, Dressing, Money Skills
Recreation & Leisure Skills
Physical Fitness, Adaptive Sports, Travel, Enjoyable Activities/ Hobbies
Career Education
Explore Interests, Areas of Strength, Job Variations, Work Ethic
Technology (Assistive)
Technical Concepts, Selection of Appropriate Assistive Devices, Media Needs, Accessibility to Information
Visual Efficiency Skills
Personal Attributes, Visual Attributes, Efficient use of functional Vision
Accessibility Notice
In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and Title II of the American with Disabilities Act, The Governor Morehead School for the Blind is committed to having a website that is as accessible for individuals with disabilities. If you are a student, parent, or any individual who has a disability and the format of any material on our website interferes with your ability to access the information, please bring it to the attention of Dr. Sarah McManus, Digital Learning Director at [email protected]. The issue will be corrected and/or an alternate format will be made available.