From BCC to Cal State LA: Anna Rinon’s Path to Orientation and Mobility

When Anna Rinon first began working at the Blind Children’s Center (BCC), she had never heard of Orientation and Mobility (O&M). Four years later, she has helped many children who are blind or visually impaired build confidence and independence. This fall, she will embark on a new journey at California State University, Los Angeles (Cal State LA), where she will pursue a graduate degree in O&M and help expand opportunities for people with vision loss.

During her time at BCC, Anna served as an associate teacher in the preschool program, bringing a background of child development to her work in the classroom. As an associate teacher, she saw firsthand how specialized support can help children in their everyday lives.

“Watching my students find joy and overcome challenges was one of the most rewarding parts of my work,” said Anna.

She recalls the moment a student, who once needed help navigating the classroom, rode a bike independently. With support and encouragement, milestones that once seemed out of reach became possible.

Anna began learning more about the specialized professionals who help children reach these milestones. Through conversations with colleagues and mentors, including her lead teacher and BCC staff, she became interested in the O&M field.

O&M specialists teach people who are blind or visually impaired how to safely navigate their surroundings. Orientation focuses on understanding where a person is in relation to their environment, while mobility focuses on moving safely from one place to another. These skills can include navigating a classroom, crossing a street or traveling independently in the community.

As Anna learned more about the profession, she also became aware of a broader challenge: 

Agencies struggle to hire qualified O&M specialists and Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments, leaving too few professionals to meet the growing demand for services.

Anna’s next step builds on her experience at BCC while preparing her to help meet the growing need for O&M specialists. At Cal State LA, her training will include hands-on exercises that allow her to experience the techniques she will eventually teach, including completing activities while blindfolded.

“Anna brings heart and dedication to her work with children, and it has been wonderful to watch her grow over the last four years at BCC,” said Bianca Ciebrant, Program Director of BCC. “We are proud to see Anna take this next step in her career and continue helping people who are blind or visually impaired thrive.”

Her experience at BCC has centered on young children, and Anna is excited to use her O&M degree to serve people across different ages and settings. After earning her degree, she plans to remain in the Los Angeles area and is interested in working at a school, nonprofit organization or with adults who are blind or visually impaired.

“BCC introduced me to a profession I once knew nothing about and showed me the impact these specialized services can have,” said Anna. “The children, teachers and specialists I’ve worked with inspired me to take this next step in my education.”

For more information about BCC and its services, visit https://www.blindchildrenscenter.org