Visual impairment

Friday was my favorite day this week! And not just because it's the weekend and it's a long weekend, but it's because we talked to Emily, who has a visual impairment. It was a neat experience to hear her point of view. Monday we finished our UDL and differentiation. Wednesday we had a guest speaker come from the disabilities office on campus to discuss what our school does for those with disabilities.

Monday we finished the UDL and differentiation lessons. We only had one left and it was braiding hair. Not just a regular braid, but it was a french braid. Let me tell you, I am not good at french braiding. Someone french braided my hair with one hand! It's impressive the things you can do with the right amount of help. I guess that is the point of differentiation.

Wednesday was a pretty good day. We had someone from the disabilities services office come and talk to us. He talked a lot about success versus access and self advocacy. The university does access, but not necessarily success. Everyone has access to what they need to be successful, but that does not mean that they will be successful. He talked about self advocacy. When freshmen come in from high school then either they don't know until later or the parents come in and advocate for the child. At first this is fine, but eventually the person must advocate for themselves. I think this is an important skill for everyone to develop.

Finally Friday! We got to class and Skyped with Emily, a blind 15 year old. The best part about all of it is that she is comfortable with herself and doesn't let her impairment stop her. She showed us her braille equipment and the things she can do. The only thing she won't do is drive, but even then she will still be able to get around. The things she can do are unlimited. Her mom talked a lot about the hope and faith that got them through the whole situation. It is incredible what happens when you believe. The main thing from her was that anything is possible and the best way to help our students succeed is to believe in them.

I am thankful for the opportunity to hear Emily's story and learn more about the things I can do to be a better teacher.