[nabs-l] High school out reach

Jim Reed jim275_2 at yahoo.com
Sat May 16 07:46:34 UTC 2009





Arielle, 

 

There are several ways in which national NABS could help
this endeavor. First, if this is to be a state-by-state effort that collectively
creates a “national” program so that out of state students can be included,
then the national NABS could help establish guidelines that standardize how
information is stored, collected, and shared. This standardization could allow
for a national website to be developed based on the data being gathered and submitted
by the states.

 

Also, national NABS could pursue the national government side
of the project. For example, national could do things like lobby the U.S.
Department of Education for a grant to fund a national database and website.

 

As to how I would spend grant money dedicated towards this
project, I will first take a “blue sky” (unlimited funds) approach, then I will
be more realistic. 

 

 

“Blue Sky” approach:

First, I would pay to have the blind college guides trained by
the admissions department so that they would be “official” campus tour guides.
This “official” status could present an opportunity for the college student to
make some money from the university…

 

Second, I would establish a scholarship fund to fund
transportation to visit schools.

 

Third, many times during summer orientation sessions, there
are also fee-based activities such as white water rafting. I would pay for the
high schooler to participate in such an activity with his peers.

 

Fourth, if desired, I would arrange, and pay for transportation
for the student to meet the local VR counselor. 

 

Fifth, I would cover all other expenses associated with
his/her trip. If a blind high schooler is interested in college, we should
support them to the fullest extent possible. The investment will seem small
once the future rewards are reaped.

 

Sixth, I would use grant money to lobby my state legislators
asking for an appropriation to support the project.

 

 

Realistic approach:

 

First, I would use grant money to produce and distribute a
flyer explaining the program. 

 

Second, I would still pay to have the guides “officially”
trained.

 

Third, I would buy the high school student and the guide
lunch.

 

Fourth, I would pay some transportation and hotel/dorm cost.

 

 

The regional reps could help by providing regional
coordination and communication. The regional rep could be important when it
comes to matching out-of-state students with campus guides.

 

That’s my two cents for now.

Jim



Homer Simpson's brain: "Use reverse psychology." 
 Homer: "Oh, that sounds too complicated." 
 Homer's brain: "Okay, don't use reverse psychology."
 Homer: "Okay, I will!"


From: Arielle Silverman <arielle71 at gmail.com>

Hi all,

I also think this is an excellent idea, and definitely something that
can be worked out on a state-by-state basis and with your local
colleges and universities. It's something you can easily pitch to the
DSS office at your local school, who can help match mentors up with
students.

Do you guys think that the national NABS would be helpful in this
endeavor and if so, in what way? For example, if the national NABS
were to provide a small grant to state divisions who want to start
mentoring programs, how would you envision spending this money? Are
there other ways that the NABS regional reps could assist your state
divisions in making  these programs happen?

This is just brainstorming--nothing formal yet, but these are things
the next NABS board will definitely consider.

Arielle Silverman
First Vice-President, NABS



      


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