[NOBE-L] Kristen Geti needs help/advice

[Lara Sowell]

Dear NOBE,

We received this email from a blind teacher in New Jersey. She started her teaching career as a sighted teacher, but lost her vision recently and needs help or advice navigating accommodations and employment. Her email is kristen.gati at gmail.com
If I remember correctly from speaking with her mother in January, Kristen is the sole bread-winner for her household which includes three generations. 
Here is her message:

Hello,

My name is Kristen Gati, and I am a teacher in New Jersey who has experienced
significant vision loss as a result of a serious eye condition.

I am reaching out because I am trying to navigate a difficult employment
situation with my school district and am looking for guidance from others who
understand the experiences of blind and visually impaired educators. I have
spoken with my union and the union's attorney, but I left those conversations
feeling that my concerns were not fully heard or understood. At this point, I
am hoping to find advice from individuals who are outside of my district and
union and can provide a more independent perspective.

I have a significant amount of documentation, including medical records,
accommodation information, emails, and employment-related communications. I
would like to find an attorney or advocate who would be willing to review the
facts of my situation and help me understand whether my rights as a blind
educator may have been violated and what options, if any, I should consider.

I was wondering if your organization has any suggestions, resources,
referrals, or contacts that might be helpful. Even hearing from other blind
educators who have faced similar challenges would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time and for the work you do to support blind and visually
impaired educators.

Sincerely,

Kristen Gati

All the best,
Lara Sowell
Sent from my iPhone