[nobe-l] Newly vision impaired and technology teacher

[nmpbrat at aol.com]

Ren,
I am sorry to hear that you are facing this challenge at this point in your career.  Although it is doable, it will definitely be an adjustment for you to learn new ways of doing things.  
It would be helpful to know a little more information in terms of what your current vision is since there is quite a range and the techniques and assistive technology others suggest may be dependent upon the level of vision you have.  I could infer that you have lost most of it but I don't want to make assumptions.  
Since you are working now in technology....have you had any experience with any programs such as Zoomtext, Jaws, NVDA, etc.?  If you haven't been trained on any of these, I would suggest you get training on one or more of them.  
Have you made contact with your state's vocational rehabilitation agency?  I don't know what state you are in or I'd direct you to information on them.  I know in my state (of Ohio) that they even have an option that if you are in a situation like yours where they expedite the process for someone who needs immediate assistance to help them continue to work....they call it like a "job save" situation....not to say that you are losing your job at this point...but if you are not able to learn some techniques and get some training on programs and assistive technology, that could be a problem long-term.  
They can also help you to get training on various assistive technology and also things like braille, orientation and mobility, etc.  As someone suggested, NFB centers are also an option...but you'd probably need to take a leave of absence to do that.  
If you could give us more specifics as to things you are struggling with, it may help us to give you more specific feedback....ie. things like access to instructional materials or classroom management techniques...because although you probably had these down pat as a seasoned educator, you may have to approach them differently now that your vision is different.  
Also, just out of curiosity if you feel comfortable sharing....what did you teach before that they no longer believe you can?


Nicole



-----Original Message-----
From: Ren Leach via NOBE-L <nobe-l at nfbnet.org>
To: Mail List NOBE-L <nobe-l at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Ren Leach <renleach at gmail.com>
Sent: Sat, Sep 1, 2018 8:35 pm
Subject: [nobe-l] Newly vision impaired and technology teacher

Hi everyone!

I have lost my vision to the point where I was reassigned with my school
district to teach technology. Are there any tips or routines that you might
be willing to share? I am experienced in the classroom, but I am not
experienced and being able to instruct without vision. Is there any
technology programs are applications that you use? Any information that you
have in this area is greatly appreciated. I am scrambling to  create a
situation that would be successful for the students as well as  myself.
Thank you in advance for anyone who has experience or knowledge in these
areas. I have been teaching for over 20 years, but I have not had to teach
with visual limitations as an educator before. Thank you so much!

Ren Leach
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