[MDPOBC] February 2022 Note

Maria de la Concepcion Hernandez Legorreta mariahl at mdschblind.org
Tue Feb 1 14:30:31 UTC 2022


​
February 2022 Note
"Eyes on Maryland" February 2022 Note




Can you believe February is upon us? Time is flying by. There are a bunch of opportunities happening this month!

All events are always being updated on the Maryland TVI Portal<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=f1a9799494&e=f570d81d7e>
February 2022

  *   1: NFB Career Mentoring: Scholarship Opportunities. 7 pm EST. Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/93231172802<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=3f19fdb017&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 932 3117 2802

  *   2: APH Webinar: The Communication Continuum.<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=c8f4040593&e=f570d81d7e> 2 - 3 pm EST. There are many forms of symbol communication systems. We are going to walk through three products by APH, the communication continuum, and the reasons for each step.

  *   3: CBSS: Navigating Special Education Today<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=d129912a93&e=f570d81d7e>! (for parents). 7 - 9 pm EST. Join us for this special four-part series that will help you understand your child's educational rights and work effectively with school personnel to maximize your child's educational opportunities. If you are a Maryland or DC parent or professional email Cheri at Cheri.dowling at msd.edu<mailto:Cheri.dowling at msd.edu> for your special code to register at no cost!

  *   4: MSB Outreach Low Vision Clinic. Contact sharonw at mdschblind.org<mailto:sharonw at mdschblind.org>

  *   5: Maryland Regional Braille Challenge<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=53d5c7adaf&e=f570d81d7e>.

  *   7: NFB Career Mentoring: The Importance of Training Programs and Acquiring Alternative Blindness Skills. 7 pm EST. Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/94953947181<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=b2abe8fa55&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 949 5394 7181

  *   8: Math and CVI Study Group: A live discussion series about the implications of CVI on learning math skills, and promising practices to support the unique needs of students with CVI. 3 pm EST.  Join the live call Feb 8 through this link https://perkins-org.zoom.us/j/96643213232<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=ce48541907&e=f570d81d7e>

  *   10: 3Play Media webinar: How to Create Accessible PDF's.<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=8494ce0596&e=f570d81d7e> 2 pm EST. In this webinar, we will walk you through a step-by-step guide to creating accessible PDFs. This webinar is presented by Michele Landis, co-Founder and CRO at Accessible360, and David Herr, VP of Marketing and Strategic Alliances at CommonLook.

  *   10-12: TSBVI conference: Texas Focus 2022: A Well-Planned Journey to Implementation. What's After Evaluation? <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=a2fc0bbea6&e=f570d81d7e> Join us for Texas Focus 2022 as we explore tools and strategies to empower all children with visual impairments. As noted in this year's title, sessions will largely focus on evaluation and implementation. As always, the end goal of this conference is to provide children with greater voice, meaningful options, and increased participation in their lives!

  *   10: On the Road to Code 1: CodeQuest<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=f68cd14e4e&e=f570d81d7e> 3 - 4 pm EST. Build the foundation of coding and a love for Computer Science with this introduction to CodeQuest APH’s accessible coding app. This interactive session will inform teachers, students, and parents about the layout of the app, the prerequisite concepts, and foundational skills will be explored. Be prepared to play some levels and gain common vocabulary that will help your student along the Road to Code! This webinar is in a series and will lead into the Code and Go Mouse.

  *   12: Cooking Blind with a Paralympian Champion<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=df3566623e&e=f570d81d7e> 9 am EST. Part of the Braille Challenge.  Want to learn how a totally blind person cooks healthy meals safely and independently? Come meet Paralympic champion cyclist Lora Fachie. Join her in her kitchen over zoom to witness her make a simple and nutritious meal that she uses to help fuel her day to day training as an elite athlete. She will share plenty of tips and advice about cooking without sight as well as give a little insight in to life as a visually impaired full time athlete. Check out her website Blindly Good Food<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=fd4daad5fa&e=f570d81d7e>.

  *   12: Tips and tricks for using your NLS braille e-reader by TUG. 10 am EST. Learn how to connect to online services, Bluetooth usage, texting and more. The presentation will be virtual and may be joined by calling 319-527-4994.  You do not have to RSVP for this event.

  *   12: Navigating the Individualized Education Program : The Nuts & Bolts of Parent and Peer Advocacy Before and During Your Child’s IEP Meeting <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=47a81b7f16&e=f570d81d7e>  Don’t feel lost in the abyss that is the Special Education process – we have guides to help you find and stay your path. Learn from experienced parent advocates about how to work your way through your child’s IEP meeting. We will help you identify obstacles early on and share strategies that will guide you through planning, advocating, finding allies, and putting together your own advocacy tool kit that can lead to a productive meeting. Bring your curiosity and questions!.

  *   14: ACB Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=295be39bb2&e=f570d81d7e> DUE

  *   15: NCUEB <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=e66a20b5ca&e=f570d81d7e> test at the Maryland School for the Blind, deadline to register is January 31

  *   15: NFB Career Mentoring: Navigating the Online Job Application. 7 pm EST. Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/99390135359<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=e0c5fa85d7&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 993 9013 5359

  *   15: AFB Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=2b7b62e39e&e=f570d81d7e> DUE

  *   15: APH Webinar: Unbox your Code Jumper: Out-of-the-Box ideas for getting started with STEM<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=cdadb64b30&e=f570d81d7e>  3 - 4 pm EST. You’ve purchased a Code Jumper, now what? Get out your kit and play along with Robin Lowell and APH. We’ll unbox our Code Jumpers, examine the components, and build a program in this hands-on webinar. Be sure to download the Code Jumper app and connect to the Hub in advance of this webinar; we’re going to jump right in and get coding during this training.

  *   16: Finances in February for Parents: Tips to Help Your Child Achieve Financial Independence. 7:30 pm EST. Join the Free Bridges Helpdesk and the Maryland Parents of Blind Children for a dynamic and interactive exploration of topics that can help you prepare your child to achieve financial independence. Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81826769275?pwd=R2sxc0U2SU1NUjE1VVdiTWhmZXlrdz09<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=db982adc44&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 818 2676 9275. Passcode: 841416

  *   16: APH webinar: The Sensory Learning Kit: Supporting Communication for Learners with Visual and Multiple Impairments <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=d98b799f8c&e=f570d81d7e>  2 - 3:30 pm EST. The Sensory Learning Kit is an APH treasure that supports team collaboration and highly effective instruction for learners with severe disabilities. Gain confidence using the strategies and materials found in the SLK in order to conduct assessments and design highly effective instruction that supports learner engagement, exploration, and communication.

  *   18-19: Governor Morehead School for the Blind: Free Hands-On, Accessible Robotics and Coding Conference<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=b1817e402b&e=f570d81d7e>. We Code, Too!  You will be able to learn, share best practices, and collaborate on finding accessibility solutions for your students. (with MSB presenters including Gina Fugate and Travis Lawrence!)

  *   21: MSB Closed Holiday





MSB Outreach Webinar: Working with Blind and Low Vision English Learners
In this session you will learn:
1. What research says about English Learners that are blind and low vision
2. Reading strategies in large print and braille for this population
3. Strategies for working with EL families
4. Ways you can contribute to research and practice in the field

This session will be presented by Conchita Hernandez, Maryland Blind and Low Vision Specialist. Conchita is a TVI and has worked with the blind and low vision English Learner population.

Duration: 1 hour
This webinar will be recorded and posted on the Maryland School for the Blind's YouTube page for later viewing.
Register for Working with Blind and Low Vision English Learners here<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=a1014c53ea&e=f570d81d7e>



[Braille challenge logo. Says your recipe for success ... just add braille. With a braille writer, electronic braille note and cane.]

2022 Reginal Braille Challenge Events

The 2022 Maryland Regional Braille Challenge is right around the corner! Here are some details you might be interested in!

  *   February 5: Virtual Braille Challenge. The Opening Ceremony will begin at 9 am and last for approximately 30 minutes. If you would like to attend, please e-mail Jackie Otwell at jacquelineo at mdschblind.org<mailto:jacquelineo at mdschblind.org> and I can provide you with registration information
  *   February 26th at 6:30 pm: The Award Ceremony (virtual). Once again, if you are interested in attending, please send Jackie Otwell an e-mail and I can provide you with Award Ceremony registration information.

We have some great workshops planned!

  *   February 12th at 9 am
     *   Cooking Blind with a Paralympic Champion! Want to learn how a totally blind person cooks healthy meals safely and independently? Come meet Paralympic champion cyclist Lora Fachie. Join her in her kitchen over zoom to witness her make a simple and nutritious meal that she uses to help fuel her day to day training as an elite athlete. She will share plenty of tips and advice about cooking without sight as well as give a little insight in to life as a visually impaired full time athlete.  Register for Cooking Blind with a Paralympian Champion<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=866556b1e3&e=f570d81d7e>   and check out her website  Blindly Good Food<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=d5741c1d99&e=f570d81d7e>.

  *   March 2nd at 7 pm
     *   Lose the Fear, Gain a Sous Chef: How to jump start your child’s role in the kitchen by Amanda Aaron, OTD and  OTR/L and Stephanie Flynt, Public Policy Analyst at the National Disability Rights Network . Can’t imagine letting your child slice an onion with a sharp knife? Terrified to let your child help you with a recipe on the stove? Let MSB’s Amanda Aaron, OTR/L, share age appropriate cooking skills so you know where to start and strategies to teach cooking concepts to children with low vision or who are blind. Hear Stephanie Flynt of the National Disability Rights Network share stories of her experience learning to cook and her helpful tips for success in the kitchen. Register for Lose the Fear, Gain a Sous Chef: How to jump start your child’s role in the kitchen<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=f51ef1b8c8&e=f570d81d7e>
  *   March 2nd at 8 pm
     *   Incorporating Orientation & Mobility Skills at the Grocery Store and Kitchen by James Grandfield, COMS, this presentation will focus on tips, ideas, and best practices to promote independence for blind and low vision learners, whether out in the community at their local grocery store or market, or within the home kitchen, with a focus on using O&M-related skills and sub-skills. Register for Incorporating Orientation & Mobility Skills at the Grocery Store and Kitchen<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=35e44f8290&e=f570d81d7e>

SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT OUR AVAILABLE WORKSHOPS TO YOUR FAMILIES! OPEN TO EVERYONE!





2022 Student Scholarship Opportunities
Now is the time for high school seniors and college students to start applying for scholarships. Below are some specific to blind and low vision students.



  *   AER Scholarships<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=43c0cd057a&e=f570d81d7e> (not yet open for 2022)
  *   AFB Scholarship <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=8d19e66276&e=f570d81d7e>  (Due February 15, 2022)
  *   ACB Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=9fa13f6e38&e=f570d81d7e> (Due February 14, 2022)
  *   The John Lepping Memorial Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=d2d5c01269&e=f570d81d7e> (Due May 1, 2022)
  *   Lighthouse Guild<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=fba1809d49&e=f570d81d7e>  (Due March 31, 2022)
  *   Microsoft Disability Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=e8dbd05303&e=f570d81d7e> (Due March 15, 2022)
  *   NFB Maryland Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=d7c37bde59&e=f570d81d7e> (Due April  15, 2022)
  *   NFB National Scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=cd21c0be6c&e=f570d81d7e> (Due March 31, 2022)
  *   Team See Possibilities Scholarship Program <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=c7eb24a117&e=f570d81d7e> (Opens in March 2022)
  *   Wells Fargo Scholarship Program for People With Disabilities<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=ffda3fff25&e=f570d81d7e> (Due June 30, 2022)

(Scholarship opportunities updated on the TVI Portal Transition Page<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=88e0d24e26&e=f570d81d7e>)




Microsoft Disability Scholarship
This scholarship will be awarded to promising high school seniors with disabilities who plan to attend a vocational or academic college and target a career in the technology industry. The scholarships are renewable – each winner who continues to meet the criteria is eligible to receive an annual award of $5,000 for up to four (4) consecutive years for a potential total $20,000 scholarship.
All completed applications must be submitted by March 15, 2022.
Apply and get more information for the Microsoft Disability Scholarship here<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=6b63243f12&e=f570d81d7e>



NFB Maryland Scholarship Program Expanded
The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (NFBMD) is thrilled to announce changes to the John T.  McCraw Scholarship Program for Academic Year 2022-2023. The NFBMD Board of Directors voted to nearly double each individual scholarship and to add an additional scholarship. The Program will award up to four individual scholarships of $4,000 each. These scholarships will be given to qualified blind students who exhibit academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership.

NOTE: A special scholarship may be awarded to former McCraw Scholarship recipients. To apply for this special scholarship, former recipients must still meet all of the requirements for the McCraw Scholarship Program and submit a new application.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE
A)  Any legally blind student is eligible to receive a scholarship who:
      1.   Resides in the State of Maryland, or is pursuing post-secondary studies in the State of Maryland;
      2.   Will turn age 18 before July 5, 2022;
      3.   Will be enrolled as a full-time or part-time student at any post-secondary institution in the Fall of 2022 and the Spring of 2023. Priority will be given to full-time students.
The application deadline for the national NFB scholarships is March 31, 2022.

Please apply online<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=aaada21aca&e=f570d81d7e> (visit https://nfbmd.org/scholarship<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=d27814015d&e=f570d81d7e>) or download, fill out, print, and mail the application.




Neurological Visual Impairment in Children Online Continuing Education Course and Micro-credential
When: February 7, 2022 - April 1, 2022
Where: Asynchronous Online Webinar
Who:   Education and Rehabilitation Professionals in the Field of Visual Impairments
Cost:   $295 + required text
Be sure to register by Tuesday, February 1st. (TODAY)
Register for neurological course here<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=a0af76d3c9&e=f570d81d7e>

Dear Colleagues:
We invite you to join us in an 8-week course offered by the Department of Blindness and Low Vision Studies at Salus University. Through the course, you will develop a working understanding of best practices for serving children with neurological visual impairments and their families.

The course will cover:

  *   Neuroanatomy related to NVI
  *   Assessment guidelines
  *   Intervention guidelines
  *   Collaborative practice
  *   Relevant and up-to-date resources will also be shared to continue learning beyond the course.

Those seeking a micro-credential need to provide proof of certification/license and demonstrate 80% proficiency in all required assignments.

Required Text:  Lueck, A. H., & Dutton, G. (2015). Vision and the brain: Understanding cerebral visual impairment in children. New York, NY: AFB Press.




eye.t FREE VoiceOver for Mac Cheat Sheet
Use a Mac and wondered about VoiceOver?
We've got you covered! Due to high demand, we have finally created the VO cheat sheet for Mac, completely FREE! Similar to our JAWS, NVDA, and Chromevox cheat sheets, this one will contain all the tips and tricks you need to fully develop your skills using VoiceOver.

Access your FREE VoiceOver for Mac cheat sheet here<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=345343df46&e=f570d81d7e>



Survey for TVI's working with students in rural areas
Hello! Are you a TVI that serves children with visual impairments in rural areas? If so, we need your help.  We have been hearing about the unique experiences that our TVIs in rural areas are experiencing during the pandemic and want to document that for future review as well as advocacy.   We have created a SHORT survey that should not take more than 30 minutes.  In return for participation, we are offering participants the chance to win one of four $50.00 Amazon gift cards.

Participate in the survey for TVI's in rural areas here<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=8bf64d9f79&e=f570d81d7e>

 This research is part of an Ohio State University research project. If you have questions about this project, please contact Dr. Tiffany Wild at wild.13 at osu.edu<mailto:wild.13 at osu.edu>.

Thank you for your time and consideration!
Tiffany Wild, Danene Fast and Tina Herzberg

Tina S. Herzberg, Ph.D.
Professor and Coordinator of Special Education – Visual Impairment Program
USC Upstate; School of Education, Human Performance, and Health; HEC 3039
800 University Way
Spartanburg, SC 29303
Office: 864-503-5572




Calling Transition Students Ages 14 to 24! Join the CareerConnect Student Advisory Committee!
APH CareerConnect<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=f82dd79f84&e=f570d81d7e> is seeking blind and low vision high school and college students ages 14 to 24 to serve on our CareerConnect Student Advisory Committee.
The committee will:

  *   Meet up to six times a year on Zoom alongside APH ConnectCenter staff to share insights and identify information and resource needs for transition-age youth with visual impairments
  *   Assist in developing blogs and related content for peers transitioning from high school to college, school to work, and/or training programs
  *   Engage with community audiences nationwide to share first-hand experiences with APH CareerConnect, APH ConnectCenter, and transition resources and services

For information on how to apply and to receive the full announcement with criteria, please, email your interest to Richard Rueda, APH CareerConnect Digital Content Manager, at rrueda at aph.org<mailto:rrueda at aph.org>, by Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 11:59 PM PST. APH CareerConnect will announce the 2022-2023 Student Advisory Committee by Tuesday, March 1, 2022.



Project Inspire Spring 2022 Course: Nemeth Code Symbols Used in the middle grades and strategies for supporting math learning
Good afternoon! We are beginning to recruit for the spring course that will begin on Monday, February 14. We will be repeating the course, “Nemeth Code Symbols Used in the Middle Grades and Strategies for Supporting Math Learning.” This course includes lessons about transcribing math materials for students in Grades 5 to 8; resources and strategies to support math learning in the middle grades; how students can construct different types of graphics used in middle school STEM courses; using a graphing calculator; connecting middle school literature to math concepts and symbols; and teaching math skills, including Nemeth Code, to students with visual impairments and additional disabilities.
Sign up for Nemeth Course here <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=9b9ffcccd1&e=f570d81d7e>

Please also feel free to share this with others who may be interested.
If you have questions, please let me know!

Tina S. Herzberg, Ph.D.
Professor and Coordinator of Special Education – Visual Impairment Program
USC Upstate; School of Education, Human Performance, and Health; HEC 3039
800 University Way
Spartanburg, SC 29303
Office: 864-503-5572
Fax: 864-503-5574
herzberg at uscupstate.edu<mailto:herzberg at uscupstate.edu>



NFB Career Mentoring Program upcoming February events
All events at 7 pm EST
February 1, 2022: Scholarship Opportunities
After completing this module, students will be familiar with the college scholarship application process, be able to research available scholarship opportunities and complete a college scholarship application.
Topics Addressed:
1. How to complete a scholarship application
2. Ways to learn about available scholarship opportunities
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/93231172802<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=a52044d1dd&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 932 3117 2802

February 7, 2022: The Importance of Training Programs and Acquiring Alternative Blindness Skills
After completing this module, students will understand the value of attending a blindness training program as a means of acquiring alternative skills of blindness, problem solving skills, and self-confidence.
Topics Addressed:
1. What is a blindness training program, and what do these programs offer?
2. How do programs differ?
3. Why should I attend a training program?
4. How to select the right blindness training program for you?
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/94953947181<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=2a4fe333d3&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 949 5394 7181

February 15, 2022: Navigating the Online Job Application
After completing this module, students will understand how to apply for a job online, create an online job account, and be familiar with the specific documents and other information needed to complete a job application.
Topics Addressed
1. Overview of accessible online job search resources
2. How to create an online job account/profile
3. How to follow up on a job application
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/99390135359<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=e7a52ea286&e=f570d81d7e> Meeting ID: 993 9013 5359
Contact: Maurice Peret mperet at nfb.org<mailto:mperet at nfb.org>




Queensland Braille Learning Progression and Assessment Tool: A Valuable Resource
The Queensland (Australia) Statewide Vision Impairment Services team has announced the Braille Learning Progression and Assessment Tool <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=004cf06782&e=f570d81d7e> is now available for download at no cost. This learning checklist and assessment tool is a key resource for teachers of the visually impaired during data collection, learning progression, and individualized braille assessments.



3 Play Media Webinar: How to Create Accessible PDFs
Date: February 10th at 2 pm ET
Cost: FREE

In this webinar, we will walk you through a step-by-step guide to creating accessible PDFs. This webinar is presented by Michele Landis, co-Founder and CRO at Accessible360, and David Herr, VP of Marketing and Strategic Alliances at CommonLook.

Register Now for making accessible PDF's <https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=6bee6704ca&e=f570d81d7e>



The Free Maryland Bridges Transition Helpdesk
Finances in February for Parents: Tips to Help Your Child Achieve Financial Independence on February 16 at 7:30 p.m.
Join the Free Bridges Helpdesk and the Maryland Parents of Blind Children for a dynamic and interactive exploration of topics that can help you prepare your child to achieve financial independence.
Topics:

  *   SSI and SSDI: Preparation for, Eligibility to receive, and more!
  *   Other government benefits, including services and more from DORS and OBVS (vocational rehabilitation)
  *   ABLE accounts
  *   Your concerns


Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81826769275?pwd=R2sxc0U2SU1NUjE1VVdiTWhmZXlrdz09<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=e1d84883b0&e=f570d81d7e>
Meeting ID: 818 2676 9275
Passcode: 841416
One tap mobile: +13017158592,,81826769275#

Can’t make it or have other questions? The Bridges Helpdesk is always here to answer your transition questions, financial or otherwise!
Always Free and Confidential
The Free Bridges Helpdesk supports educators as well as students and families of blind/low vision students everywhere in Maryland. Our dedicated blind adults and blindness education experts are eager to help with questions, concerns, and ideas and to invest the time to ensure that you get thorough and helpful answers.
Please never hesitate to reach out to us — for anything. All inquiries are confidential, and we will never share information that identifies anyone who contacts the Helpdesk.
Contact us

  *   Accessible web form<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=ff7856f762&e=f570d81d7e>
  *   Send us a text: (410) 305-9199
  *   Email: Helpdesk at imagemd.org<mailto:Helpdesk at imagemd.org>
  *   Visit our Bridges Helpdesk website<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=76e26f0515&e=f570d81d7e>
  *   Call (443) 320-4003, leave a voice mail message, and we will return your call


Upcoming Bridges Helpdesk Transition Tip Tuesdays: FINANCIAL FEBRUARY!

  *   This month, the Free Bridges Transition Helpdesk Tuesday Transition Tips will discuss a key part of the transition process: knowing about financial benefits for which blind and low vision students are eligible: A crash course on SSI benefits.
  *   Topics include:
     *   February 1: What is SSI, and Who is Eligible for It?
     *   February 8: What Are the Income Requirements for SSI?
     *   February 15: How Do Resources Affect SSI?
     *   February 22: How Can I Apply for SSI?





[https://mcusercontent.com/da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03/images/1f25c49c-88ea-eb0d-ced5-f2a4da28c54b.jpg]
Accessibility Tip: Lists
We love creating lists to help guide us in organizing ideas in documents. When making a list ensure it is accessible. Easily make a list accessible by using the built in list options in word such as 'create a numbered list' or 'create a bulleted list' in your home ribbon. Do not use the * symbol for your lists as this is not accessible. Do not start writing numbers in word without selecting the numbered list option. This may seem trivial, but it makes a world of difference to people using screen readers to access your lists.

Find step by step directions on making accessible lists here<https://maryland.us17.list-manage.com/track/click?u=da8f913f82891276e85e5bd03&id=484102bc53&e=f570d81d7e>




Questions or comments: email conchita.hernandez @ maryland.gov<http://maryland.gov>












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MSDE · 3501 Taylor Ave · Baltimore, MD 21236-4406 · USA

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--
Conchita Hernandez
Statewide Blind and Low Vision Specialist
Maryland State Department of Education
Division of Special Education/Early
     Intervention Services
200 W. Baltimore Street
Baltimore, MD 21201-2595
410-767-0812 office
410-333-8165 fax
conchita.hernandez at maryland.gov<mailto:conchita.hernandez at maryland.gov>

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