School Orientation and Mobility Specialist

This application is for people seeking their first tier certification for the school orientation and mobility specialist role.

  • Baccalaureate degree or higher. Must submit official transcripts showing degree conferral
  • Hold a valid Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) certificate from the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Education Professionals (ACVREP), or valid National Orientation and Mobility Certification (NOMC) from the National Blindness Professional Certification Board (NBPCB). Must submit a copy of valid COMS or NOMC certificate.
  • Complete a PESB-approved ESA course (Professional Transitions to Public Schools), per WAC 181-79A-224
  • Submission of fingerprints for a background check is required, if a valid certificate is not already on record

COURSE NOTE: For the PESB approved course, the applicant must have completed prior to, or within one year after application, a 15 clock hour or 1 semester hour course approved by the Professional Educator Standards Board (PESB) which will include a number of topics related to the Educational Staff Associate (ESA) roles.

PERMIT NOTE: Provided, that an individual who meets all other requirements (fingerprinting, degree, license if required), but who has not yet provided verification of ESA course completion, shall be issued a temporary permit valid for one year, allowing the individual to practice in the role. The candidate shall provide verification of course completion to OSPI during the one-year period.

Apply

If you have all necessary documentation to apply for this certificate, login to: E-Certification

*IMPORTANT: Please note that application fees are NOT refundable. Ensure that you select and submit the correct application. If you have questions regarding your application, please contact our office.