What Is the ECC—and Why Every TVI Should Be Teaching It Weekly

If you’re a Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI), you already know that teaching braille is only part of the story. True independence for students with visual impairments comes from mastering the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC)—the nine areas of instruction designed specifically to bridge the gap between the standard academic curriculum and the unique learning needs of students with vision loss.

So, what exactly is the ECC? The ECC covers critical life and career readiness areas including compensatory access skills, orientation and mobility, social interaction, independent living, recreation and leisure, career education, assistive technology, sensory efficiency, and self-determination. These are not “extras.” They are essential skills that prepare students for a world designed primarily for the sighted.

Unfortunately, in many educational settings, ECC instruction is inconsistent or only addressed when time allows. But here’s the truth: ECC should be embedded and taught weekly—not as an afterthought, but as an intentional part of every student’s program. Just like literacy and math, ECC builds in layers over time, and every week without instruction is a missed opportunity to build independence.

At Evision Academy Programs, we make the ECC the foundation of our instructional model. Our TVIs don’t treat it as a checklist—they integrate it into real lessons, routines, and experiences that are meaningful for each student. Whether in person or through our virtual service model supported by trained Vision Assistants, ECC instruction remains a consistent thread in every plan we deliver.

We’ve seen firsthand how students thrive when ECC is prioritized: improved confidence, stronger daily living skills, better self-advocacy, and measurable gains in overall engagement. We also collaborate closely with districts to ensure ECC instruction aligns with IEP goals, making implementation both practical and impactful.

Every student with a visual impairment deserves weekly exposure to ECC concepts—and every TVI deserves a system that supports them in delivering it effectively. That’s what we do best at Evision Academy Programs: we help schools make vision education structured, consistent, and transformative.

If your district is looking for a partner who understands the full scope of ECC and how to make it work in real classrooms, Evision Academy Programs can help.