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Wednesday, March 19
 

6:00pm MDT

Registration Opens
Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
TAER 2025 Conference Registration is Open for sign-in.
Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
 
Thursday, March 20
 

8:00am MDT

Registration Opens
Thursday March 20, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Thursday March 20, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

9:00am MDT

Eye Anatomy Lessons with Your Students: A Make-&-Take Session
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
Do your students say, “I hate when somebody asks me about my eyes”? Attendees will participate in hands-on activities while discovering how eye anatomy lessons can lead to empowerment. This topic is relevant across our student population and includes make-and-take materials that can be used in your next lesson!
Speakers
avatar for Kathi Garza

Kathi Garza

TSVI, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI)
Kathi Garza is a certified teacher of students with visual impairments and works as an Early Childhood Educational Consultant in the Outreach Department at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI). Before joining the Outreach team in 2019, Kathi taught in Comprehensive... Read More →
CB
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

9:00am MDT

 It’s Alive!!! How to Create Books and Stories That Have Meaning
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
When children do not have full access to one or more of their distal senses (vision, hearing) it can have serious implications on concept and literacy development. Books and stories must come alive in order to have meaning! Creating hands-on materials helps to solidify the words on a page as well as actions performed. Research tells us that when activities are tied to movement and personal experiences, we are better able to commit those activities to memory. Please join us as we engage in interactive literacy experiences to create and take back materials that you will be able to use immediately with your students.
Speakers
avatar for Emily Leeper

Emily Leeper

TSVInConsultant, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI)
avatar for Rachel Collins

Rachel Collins

TSVI/TDHH/TDB, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI)
Deafblind Education Consultant, Texas Deafblind Project
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

9:00am MDT

O&M + Play = Purposeful Movement
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Have you ever heard, thought, or said that a student does not qualify for orientation and mobility because they are not moving? What is your role as an O&M when the student is not moving? How does a child begin to move? If you are unsure what to do, then this session is for you!
This session will highlight the importance of movement through play to develop the fundamental skills necessary for future development. From evaluation to services, play and movement are essential to the student’s development. The targeted population is students with visual impairments from birth to 48 months, or students functioning at this developmental level. All participants will make a device for their student as well as a jumpstart to ideas for your caseload.
Speakers
avatar for Shannah Blankenship

Shannah Blankenship

TSVInCOMS, Region 11 ESC
My name is Shannah Blankenship. I have been a TVI for 10 years and a COMS for 3 years. I am currently the Special Education Specialist for ESC Region 11. I have a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Midwestern State University and completed my TVI at Stephen F Austin and... Read More →
CS

Cheryl Schulik

Texas Tech University (TTU)
avatar for Shay Utley

Shay Utley

COMS, Mansfield ISD
Shay Utley has been a COMS for 27 years. She began her career at the Lighthouse for the Blind in Fort Worth, Texas for 6 years and she has been serving students in the Mansfield ISD for the last 21 years. Shay has served students ages 0-22 years of age with diverse visual and cognitive... Read More →
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

9:00am MDT

Bringing Literacy to Life
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
Students who are blind or have low vision face unique challenges when learning how to read. In addition to providing braille instruction, the TSVI plays a unique role in supporting students and providing collaborative consultation to general education teachers and families. This make-and-take session will provide hands-on examples and practical tips and strategies for adapting materials, instruction, and assessment.
Speakers
DB
DB
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Literacy

9:00am MDT

 New Technology - AI, 3D, VR
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Illuminating Possibilities with AI, 3D Printing, and VR in Education - Donna Clemens
Description: Join us for an exploration of how advanced technologies—Artificial Intelligence (AI), 3D printing, and Virtual Reality (VR)—are reshaping education and enhancing student engagement, accessibility, and creativity. This session will dive into cutting-edge applications across diverse learning environments, from using AI to personalize learning pathways, to 3D printing for hands-on STEM experiences, to VR for immersive, real-world simulations. We will discuss successful case studies, including VR environments for students with visual impairments, and examine how these tools can be applied to meet varied learning needs. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on how to integrate these technologies into their own educational settings, unlocking new possibilities for innovation and inclusion.
Speakers
avatar for Donna Clemens

Donna Clemens

Outreach - Assistive Technology, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI)
Donna Clemens has 26 years of experience in education. She received her certification as a teacher of students with visual impairments from Florida State University and earned her M.Ed. in dual sensory impairments at Texas Tech. She served as a TSVI in various locations and is an... Read More →
Thursday March 20, 2025 9:00am - 11:00am MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Technology

11:00am MDT

Lunch On your Own
Thursday March 20, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Thursday March 20, 2025 11:00am - 1:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

12:00pm MDT

Exhibits open
Thursday March 20, 2025 12:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall
Thursday March 20, 2025 12:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

12:00pm MDT

Auction Open
Thursday March 20, 2025 12:00pm - Friday March 21, 2025 5:00pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall
Thursday March 20, 2025 12:00pm - Friday March 21, 2025 5:00pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

1:00pm MDT

Welcome and Keynote Address
Thursday March 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions
Speakers
avatar for Stacey Chambers

Stacey Chambers

TSVI, Coppell ISD
Stacey is a leader, advocate, and passionate educator with over 13 years of experience as a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TSVI). She has dedicated her career to creating effective, meaningful learning experiences for students with visual and multiple impairments, inspiring... Read More →
avatar for Donna Clemens

Donna Clemens

Outreach - Assistive Technology, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI)
Donna Clemens has 26 years of experience in education. She received her certification as a teacher of students with visual impairments from Florida State University and earned her M.Ed. in dual sensory impairments at Texas Tech. She served as a TSVI in various locations and is an... Read More →
Thursday March 20, 2025 1:00pm - 2:15pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

2:15pm MDT

Announcements and Board Nomination
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:15pm - 2:30pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:15pm - 2:30pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

2:45pm MDT

Creative Solutions without Breaking the Bank
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Join the out of the box thinkers in FUNctional and meaningful creative solutions to aid in purposeful learning and movement. Be ready to share your own hacks or creative solutions so we can learn from each other!
Speakers
AP
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

2:45pm MDT

Job Wars: Exploring Disclosure in the Job Market
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
Join us for a fun, role-playing activity designed to help students with visual impairments assess their readiness for the job market. This activity simulates employer-employee interactions, allowing students to gain insight into the conversations employers have when meeting job applicants.
Speakers
AB
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC, Independent living

2:45pm MDT

Making it Easier: Abacus Instruction for All
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Laguna Madre
Are you tired of math manipulatives falling off your desk? Are you wondering how to introduce the abacus to students with complex needs? Would you like to teach multiplication and division in an accessible and student-focused format? Come learn how to make the abacus work for your students.
Speakers
HB
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC, Math

2:45pm MDT

You want me to do what now? Meeting Teachers Where They’re At To Build Capacity For Supporting Students w/VI In The Classroom
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
Let’s discuss the importance of meeting teachers where they’re at to build their skills & confidence in supporting students with VI, along with collaboration tips to build effective systems for both the classroom & itinerant staff. Pairing personal vulnerability with adaptable support services builds classroom teachers’ autonomy to elicit greater inclusive practices.
Speakers
CF
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Collaboration

2:45pm MDT

Everything, Everywhere, All at Once vs. Too Cool for School
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
Whether your student wants “everything, everywhere, all at once” or is “too cool for school,” this session will help you think outside the box to meet your students’ needs. Through case studies, options for each style of student will be presented. Also, the benefits of using AI with Assistive Technology.
Speakers
KC
Thursday March 20, 2025 2:45pm - 4:00pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Technology

4:00pm MDT

Break
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:00pm - 4:15pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

4:15pm MDT

Addressing O&M Barriers and Expanding Access to Services
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Numbers of individuals who would benefit from O&M has increased. This session explores the non-traditional approaches for provision of O&M that supports generalizable O&M skills in a variety of environments. A collaborative approach for expanding O&M skills is shared. Strategies for educating support networks for increasing independent travel are explored.
Speakers
BH
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

4:15pm MDT

Math Mayhem
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Laguna Madre
Join us for this exciting session where we’ll dive into using concrete objects to bring math concepts to life for students with visual impairments.
Speakers
RB
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC, Math

4:15pm MDT

The Why? For ECC; Not Just Now but Future Why?
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
The “now” why is important but it is the “future” why that is the real motivation for why the ECC is so crucial for individuals who are blind or visually impaired so they can become self-sufficient, independent, and thrive in life.
Speakers
CA
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

4:15pm MDT

Illuminate learning opportunities, Innovate teaching practices, and Inspire student engagement
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
This training empowers educators to collaborate effectively in supporting students with complex needs. Discover how to use adaptive tools like switch-activated toys, voice output devices, and tactile materials to enhance engagement and learning. Illuminate opportunities, innovate practices, and inspire meaningful connections through hands-on activities and real-world strategies.
Speakers
BL
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Job Tools

4:15pm MDT

Unlocking Literacy: Strategies for MIVI Students
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
Explore adaptive techniques and strategies to enhance literacy for MIVI students. This session offers practical tools and insights to foster literacy development and equitable access to education. Perfect for educators, specialists, and caregivers aiming to empower students on their literacy journey.
Speakers
BP
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Literacy

4:15pm MDT

JupyterVox: A Semantics-Based Screen Reader for Python
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
To mitigate the challenges inherent in screen readers within computer programming code, the research team developed and is testing JupyterVox. This presentation describes the qualities of JupyterVox and reports on our experiments to date.
Speakers
KE
Thursday March 20, 2025 4:15pm - 5:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Technology

7:00pm MDT

President's Reception
Thursday March 20, 2025 7:00pm - 8:30pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions
Thursday March 20, 2025 7:00pm - 8:30pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
 
Friday, March 21
 

8:00am MDT

Exhibits open
Friday March 21, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall
Friday March 21, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

8:00am MDT

Registration Opens
Friday March 21, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Friday March 21, 2025 8:00am - 4:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

8:00am MDT

Electronic Voting for 2025-26 Board Members
Friday March 21, 2025 8:00am - 6:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Friday March 21, 2025 8:00am - 6:00pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

9:00am MDT

Pedestrian Readiness is Pre-Driver Readiness: the COMS Role in Working with Potential Drivers
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Students who meet the visual criteria to drive may have received limited O&M instruction as they often fly under the radar with visual measures above legal blindness and resist use of a mobility cane. Foundational concepts within O&M instruction are key components of pedestrian travel and apply to pre-driver readiness.
Speakers
CB
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

9:00am MDT

Recharge Your Nemth Code
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Laguna Madre
The latest BANA Nemeth Code rule books and guidelines will be presented with the most significant rule changes. Numerous sample Nemeth Code math expressions from first grade to Algebra II will be shared as we refresh those slightly rusty braille skills – especially encountering those common errors we all make.
Speakers
SO
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC, Math

9:00am MDT

 Spilling the Tea on grants for the ECC
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
Funding for ECC initiatives and transition student support can be scarce. Join this session to learn about one of Texas' best-kept secrets for grants that support teaching in ECC domains and help transition students launch their adult lives.
Speakers
NH
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

9:00am MDT

Essential Tools of the Trade
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
The co-authors of Essential Tools of the Trade 2nd Edition: A Guide for Completing Functional Vision, Non-Visual Skills, Learning Media, and Expanded Core Curriculum Evaluations will provide an overview of the publication and introduce the newly-developed Non-Visual Skills Assessment for school-aged students who are blind, deafblind, or have low vision.
Speakers
SH
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Evaluation/Assessment

9:00am MDT

Teacher Hacks
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
Together we can enhance our effectiveness by sharing strategies for student engagement, preparing materials efficiently, and our car storage methods. Be ready to share your own hacks as by learning from each other we become stronger and more effective!
Speakers
LE
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Job Tools, Teaching

9:00am MDT

TSBVI: Programs Now and into the Future
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
This presentation will highlight current TSBVI programs and services and provide an opportunity for others to give feedback regarding the needs of Texas students and ways we can better support the 11,000 students across the state.
Speakers
EC
Friday March 21, 2025 9:00am - 10:15am MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Job Tools, Support

10:15am MDT

Break
Friday March 21, 2025 10:15am - 10:45am MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Friday March 21, 2025 10:15am - 10:45am MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

10:45am MDT

Why Defined Spaces Work: VI and O&M Working Together to Promote Active Learning
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
We know that kids enjoy exploring and learning. Kids learn best through incidental learning in the natural environment. Many of our students are not able to access their environment without some accommodation or modification. Join in the discussion on how we can create those learning environments through defined play areas.
Speakers
JB
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

10:45am MDT

Mathlete Competition: Integrating Braille Math Notation and Computation
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Laguna Madre
Students who read braille can be successful in math and have fun along the way! By learning braille math symbols and using them within mathematical context, students are better prepared for advancement in STEM education and employment. Come and learn how we implemented the virtual Mathlete Competition with 6th-12th graders.
Speakers
TH
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC, Math

10:45am MDT

Active Learning in Public Schools: How It Can Work
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
Students in the public school setting can learn at a pre-academic level through Active Learning, developed by Lilli Nielsen. This presentation will share data and results of my research study of Active Learning strategies and its influence on student growth.
Speakers
CS

Cheryl Schulik

Texas Tech University (TTU)
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Job Tools, Teaching

10:45am MDT

State of the Association
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
Lee Sonnenberg, Executive Director of AERBVI, will provide an update on the AER 2023-2026 Strategic Plan. He will cover international programs and services, opportunities for member professional and leadership development, and partnerships with chapters, divisions, and other organizations to enhance collaboration and engagement.
Speakers
LS
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Support

10:45am MDT

 From Assessment to Meaningful Instruction, and Everything In-Between!
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
This session will touch on how traditional assessment protocols fall short for complex learners and explore a simple, meaningful tool that guides goal writing and functional instruction. We’ll also focus on identifying prerequisite skills that are developmentally appropriate for this group of students, ensuring more effective and personalized educational strategies.
Speakers
avatar for Rachel Collins

Rachel Collins

TSVI/TDHH/TDB, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI)
Deafblind Education Consultant, Texas Deafblind Project
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Evaluation/Assessment

10:45am MDT

Tactonom Reader - better learning opportunities for blind people
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
The Tactonom Reader enables blind and visually impaired people to independently access, understand and learn with tactile graphics.
A camera identifies the position of the finger and explains the content. The system comes with a wealth of features and access to a large free database of audio-tactile graphics.
Speakers
KK
Friday March 21, 2025 10:45am - 12:00pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Technology

12:15pm MDT

Awards Luncheon
Friday March 21, 2025 12:15pm - 2:00pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions
Friday March 21, 2025 12:15pm - 2:00pm MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

2:15pm MDT

Innovative Games for VI & O&M
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Delve into the Braille Game and the Cross to Win intersection game. A more in-depth look, and play, of the two games I've created.
Speakers
LH
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

2:15pm MDT

Launch of the VISSPA Workload Analysis Tool
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
Come learn about the development of the workload analysis tool for vision professionals, the VISSPA; its validity and reliability; how to use the VISSPA; and what the results of the tool's use can do for you and/or your team. The new VISSPA website will also be shared.
Speakers
RP
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Job Tools, Support

2:15pm MDT

NAVEG: CVI Early Screening Tool in Texas
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
A CVI screening tool has been developed for infants and young children called the Neonatal Assessment Vision European Grid (NAVEG). Ocular, motor, and perceptual visual components are screened. The resulting score will determine if an eye care professional should be contacted.
Speakers
DS
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Evaluation/Assessment

2:15pm MDT

Potty Talk: Practical Approaches for Toilet Training Success
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Laguna Madre
"Potty Talk: Practical Approaches for Toilet Training Success" explores effective, developmentally appropriate strategies for guiding children through the toilet training process. This session covers common obstacles, behavior management tips, and how to create a supportive environment for both children and caregivers. Perfect for educators and parents seeking practical solutions.
Speakers
SM
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Teaching

2:15pm MDT

Sensory Literacy
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
From the Crafty TSVI! Learn innovative ways to bring literacy to life. This presentation will introduce fun ways to make storytime interactive for young learners. You will make your very own CVI book and get great ideas on teaching braille literacy.
Speakers
CM
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Literacy

2:15pm MDT

 A connected classroom for Low Vision
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
Using Windows operating system, use Prodigi for Windows to enlarge printed documents and read more efficiently with Diamond Edge characters, various reading modes, speech, distance viewing colour images and more. on portable formfactor! The Windows operating system allows one to make your laptop efficient and multi-tasking!
Speakers
SA
Friday March 21, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Technology

3:30pm MDT

Break
Friday March 21, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Friday March 21, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

3:45pm MDT

Embracing AI: Enhancing Efficiency in Orientation and Mobility Practices
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Discover how artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize orientation and mobility (O&M) services. This session explores strategies for reducing administrative burdens, creating data-driven lesson plans, and improving outcomes for students. Learn about real-world applications, potential challenges, and implementation plans to empower O&M specialists and enhance service delivery.
Speakers
PM
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

3:45pm MDT

 Get Ready for Adjustment!
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Laguna Madre
During this session, the concept of adjustment to blindness will be defined by the participants through interactive fun activities. The participants will gain ideas on how to talk with their students about their own blindness, issues that affect blind people and how they could help families understand adjustment.
Speakers
VA
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

3:45pm MDT

Tactile Materials made easier with crafting tools
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
Are you looking for a way to make tactile materials that can save you time? Come learn how to use popular crafting machines to design and cut materials for your tactile books including designs to run through the Piaf machine.
Speakers
RA
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Job Tools

3:45pm MDT

 Innovating Evaluation for the ECC
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
TSBVI is working with stakeholders across the state to develop a valid and reliable evaluation for the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC). This workshop will allow participants to provide input about key skills and standards to be incorporated and the features to be included in the evaluation tool.
Speakers
AW
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Evaluation/Assessment

3:45pm MDT

Opening Doors to Reading: Making books Accessible for All!
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
In this dynamic and interactive session, educators will explore innovative strategies to ensure that reading is accessible for every student. We will focus on the integration of AI tools and the Monarch Reader app, empowering participants to transform traditional reading materials into inclusive resources.
Speakers
avatar for Shannah Blankenship

Shannah Blankenship

TSVInCOMS, Region 11 ESC
My name is Shannah Blankenship. I have been a TVI for 10 years and a COMS for 3 years. I am currently the Special Education Specialist for ESC Region 11. I have a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from Midwestern State University and completed my TVI at Stephen F Austin and... Read More →
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Literacy

3:45pm MDT

Digital Tactile Graphics?! Monarch Style!
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
Using other tools to make tactile graphics are fine, but now you can make them digital! Utilizing the Monarch, you will be able to make and use your own graphics with your computer. Putting them onto the device is easy and can be edited whenever needed. Come see!
Speakers
BD
Friday March 21, 2025 3:45pm - 5:00pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Technology

5:00pm MDT

Break
Friday March 21, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Friday March 21, 2025 5:00pm - 5:15pm MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

5:00pm MDT

Auction pick up
Friday March 21, 2025 5:00pm - 6:30pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall
Friday March 21, 2025 5:00pm - 6:30pm MDT
Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

5:15pm MDT

O&M Division Meeting (with ACVREP)
Friday March 21, 2025 5:15pm - 6:15pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Speakers
VL
Friday March 21, 2025 5:15pm - 6:15pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
 
Saturday, March 22
 

8:00am MDT

Annual Business Meeting
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions
Speakers
avatar for Stephanie Walker

Stephanie Walker

TSVInCOMS, APH
Stephanie’s professional career in the field of visual impairments began with a Master of Arts in Special Education with a focus on Visual Impairments and Orientation & Mobility from Texas Tech University. Her experience working with students with visual impairments extends over... Read More →
Saturday March 22, 2025 8:00am - 9:30am MDT
Corpus A/B - General Sessions 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

10:00am MDT

Behavior Outside the Classroom
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
This session will explore ways to foster safety, success, independence, and connectedness with students with sensory impairments. We will address why students may have distress and offer some practical strategies to consider in these situations.
This session places strong emphasis on the relational dynamics between students and educators.
Speakers
LM
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA

10:00am MDT

Don't Fear the Veer: A Study of the Numbers
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Aransas - Breakout
Veering, swerve, spiral, whatever word we use, this can be an issue with our students and clients affecting orientation and safety. We conducted a test or study to learn more about veering and other travel issues and would like to show some numbers and results.
Speakers
VL
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

10:00am MDT

Feel the Beat, Touch the Art: A Multi-Sensory Journey
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
This session is an immersive, hands-on experience designed to engage participants in the world of art and music through touch and sound. Techniques from the TSBVI publication, “Artful Instruction,” will be introduced and participants will use their sense of touch, hearing, and intuition to experience creativity in new ways.
Speakers
JH
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

10:00am MDT

 Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program’s Nonvisual Skills Training for Independence
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Laguna Madre
Every person who is visually impaired will encounter moments where their vision is not "working for them". This presentation will describe how the Blind Children’s Program developed a hands-on nonvisual skills training program to enhance program participants’ independence, community engagement, and future vocational success.
Speakers
SF
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

10:00am MDT

 Supporting Success: A Person-Centered Approach to Transition Planning for Students with Visual Impairments
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
This session equips VI professionals with person-centered transition planning strategies, focusing on discovery activities, collaborative team roles, and effective communication. Rather than relying on a specific tool, participants will learn about the flexible nature of this approach and gain clarity on what an effective, person-centered process entails.
Speakers
BF
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools

10:00am MDT

Thinking outside of the Braille Cell
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
Explore the Mangold method for developing proficient braille readers in this informative workshop. Learn how to make lessons engaging, motivating, and effective for new braille students. We'll cover Mangold Basic Braille Units 1-3, offering teacher-tested strategies to reduce scrubbing and backtracking while enhancing braille proficiency.
Speakers
SH
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:00am - 11:15am MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Literacy

10:15am MDT

Break
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
Omni Corpus Christi
Saturday March 22, 2025 10:15am - 10:30am MDT
Omni Corpus Christi 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

11:30am MDT

Go-Go Gadgets
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout
A variety of Independent Living Skill gadgets will be presented to help one teach students of varying abilities different ways to approach kitchen skills. Additionally, images of high-marked appliances will be shown to provide guidance for increasing accessibility at school and home.
Speakers
YC
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Aransas - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  COMS

11:30am MDT

APH Abacus Bee Texas Style
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout
The APH Abacus Bee is a fun and engaging competition designed to ignite a passion for mathematics for blind or low vision students. The competition ensures participation through individual learning styles through print or braille and encourages the use of mental math and abacus skills unlocking mathematical potential.
Speakers
MG
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Nueces B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  ECC, Math

11:30am MDT

Empowering Self-Advocacy through Creative Strategies
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout
Professionals will gain insight into fun ways to empower students with confidence to advocate for their needs in the classroom and community. In this session, participants will explore a variety of ways to help students learn about their vision and accommodations they need through various lesson plans and accompanying activities.
Speakers
AL
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

11:30am MDT

The Legacy of Blind Blues Musicians
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Laguna Madre
Throughout history, blind musicians have demonstrated skill across many musical forms. Many found a niche in the American blues scene. This presentation will discuss blues genres chosen and sometimes dominated by blind performers. We'll also discuss the artists themselves: their stories, their contributions, and offer representative music samples.
Speakers
BB
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Laguna Madre 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  ECC

11:30am MDT

 STAAR and the TSVI
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout
STAAR is stressful for everyone, but when you have a student who can't just test online like everyone else, there's added stress. Let's learn about accommodations for students who are blind or visually impaired so they can test and you can know they have all the access they need.
Speakers
JB
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Corpus Ballroom B - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
  Job Tools, Evaluation/Assessment

11:30am MDT

Learning in a New Light: Using 3D printing, tactile graphics and computer programs to support students learning in the Classroom
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout
A discussion on innovative ways to assist students with visual impairments to access a variety of materials in the General Education setting including Math, Maps, Charts, Graphs, and using AI to help create accessibility.
Speakers
JB
Saturday March 22, 2025 11:30am - 12:45pm MDT
Nueces A - Breakout 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, USA
  Technology
 
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Wednesday, March 19
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Aransas - Breakout
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Corpus C - Exhibit and Auction Hall
Laguna Madre
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Omni Corpus Christi
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