Calendar and Class Descriptions
School year short-term program classes are designed to provide Expanded Core Curriculum support for academic level students who are learning from a curriculum that is on or close to grade level. The classes are listed here with the option to filter by subject matter, grade level, on campus or online, date, etc. There are descriptions for each listing but if more information is needed to make a decision about what classes would be right for your student, please contact our admission team at stp-admissions@tsbvi.edu. You can also view a Google Doc of the course offerings.
High School Independence Weekend: Iron Chef
Is your student a budding chef? Or, does your student simply need to learn how to cook?
The ability to prepare one’s own meals is an important adult life skill. Students with visual impairments often have fewer opportunities to practice cooking than students with sight, due to concerns about safety and the time it takes to prepare even a simple meal. This area of the Expanded Core Curriculum may also be difficult to address during the school day. However, students with visual impairments need specific instruction in cooking techniques and adaptations in order to learn how to prepare their meals in the kitchen.
In this class, based on the premise of the Iron Chef television show, students will prepare and cook a variety of basic foods within a fun context, as they prepare food over the course of the weekend. They will learn a variety of culinary techniques, including using a stove and oven, how to handle raw meat, cutting/chopping/dicing, pouring, measuring, food safety, using a timer, storing items, working in a team, reading recipes, setting a table, and shopping/grocery store navigation.
In the dorm after school, students will also practice other skills of independent living (e.g., organizing one’s personal area), as well as social skills, recreation and leisure, and self-determination. Simply being together and sharing similar challenges can be an invaluable, life-changing experience for students.
For more information about the content of this section contact Helen Benton at bentonh@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9471.
Algebra I SBOE Credit – Spring
This class will cover fundamental algebraic skills in accordance with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), including:
- expressions, equations, and functions
- linear equations and functions
- linear inequalities
- systems of linear equations and inequalities
- exponents and exponential functions
- quadratic expressions, equations, and functions
- radical functions and geometry
- tactile graphing and graphing calculator
Primary Requirements:
(1) Attend the in-person classes at TSBVI, two each semester:
- January 8 – 12, 2024 – Systems of Equations and Inequalities
- April 14 – 18, 2024 – Exponential, Quadratic, and Radical Functions
(2) Obtain the textbook.
Algebra 1 – TEKS Texas Student Edition
ISBN-13: 9780021402465
ISBN-10: 0021402469
Publisher: McGraw Hill
Published: 2016
This a Texas-adopted textbook as per TEA. It can be ordered through the EMAT system (see TEA’s Accessible Instructional Materials page) by the district’s Instructional Materials Coordinator. Please contact us with any questions.
Note: If you are ordering the book in braille, make sure to request the UEB version. TEA should not send the EBAE version out in the future, but it is best to make sure to request UEB.
If you currently have the EBAE version (in the district warehouse), we can use that for this school year, but a plan for replacing that needs to be made by the district.
(3) Be able to access and interact with class materials online, which includes:
- Using Zoom videoconferencing on a computer or device mostly independently (i.e., muting/unmuting, turning on/off video);
- Having intermediate screenreader skills for accessing and interacting with Desmos graphing calculator, Google Classroom, and email;
- Being able to successfully advocate for alternatives if needed (i.e. TI-84 Graphing Calculator, BNT+) and incorporate them efficiently during class activities.
*TSBVI will award credit in place of a local district’s Algebra class.
For additional information contact: John Rose, M.A., M.Ed.
Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments at rosej@tsbvi.edu.
High School Access to Academic Skills – Spring
- Low Vision (Monday-Thursday)
- Mathematics
- STAAR Test-Taking Strategies (new section)
- Technology
Students may select to work on skills related to low vision, mathematics, STAAR test-taking stretegies or technology. Instruction will be provided in a small group, highly individualized setting (typically two to three students with a teacher and TA). Students coming to work on screen reader skills must meet certain prerequisites as described below.
The Short-Term Programs teacher and the student’s local CTSVI will jointly determine objectives for each student (examples: develop introductory skills in using the new Orion TI-84+ Talking, Graphing Calculator; use a screen reader or screen enlarger for word processing, internet research, to create spreadsheets, and/or to create PowerPoint presentations). We will also ask you about your student’s current level of performance in the identified skill areas. The purpose of the class is to increase each student’s ability to access the academic curriculum (TEKS) by using a specific adaptive skill set.
In addition to the specific objectives selected, students will practice skills of independent living (e.g., preparing simple meals, serving and cleaning in the kitchen, organizing one’s personal area), as well as social skills, recreation & leisure, and self-determination after school. Students attending these week-long classes are asked to bring local assignments with them, and we provide two hours each day for students to work on them.
We request that local CTSVIs integrate newly learned skills into students’ daily lessons after the student completes this class. Daily practice is the best way to reinforce current skill levels and promote new learning. We can be available to help you with this by offering the following supports:
- Zoom online meetings
- Phone conversations
- Visits to TSBVI
Screen Reader Prerequisites
Students using a screen reader can learn to access the computer in two ways: using a keyboard or using a refreshable braille display.
Keyboard: appropriate for students with a basic knowledge of the alphabet, number, and punctuation keys. Students ideally should be able to type simple sentences. Help your student learn typing skills by using the free Talking Typer software from the American Printing House for the Blind (APH).
Refreshable braille display: appropriate for students who are comfortable typing on a Perkins brailler and who can transfer skills to the keys of a braille display. Please ensure your student has access to a braille display in the home district in order to build on skills after the class ends. If your student doesn’t have access to a braille display and you are interested in exploring instruction using this method, please contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyern@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9361 to discuss your options.
To borrow a braille display, investigate:
- Your local ESC
- TSBVI Tech Loan Library
Software to be taught in the TSBVI class must be installed on a computer that the student can access for frequent practice after returning home, in order to maintain skills.
Life After High School
This section is for students who wish to learn how to prepare and what to expect for life after high school as it relates to the transition from high school to post-secondary education and/or employment.
Topics include:
- housing options
- money management
- career readiness
- independent living skills
- self-determination
STAAR Test-Taking Strategies
A new class is being offered this year, with the goal of preparing braille-reading students for the paper-based STAAR test. Students will have the opportunity to share these learning experiences with others who are also braille test takers.
Topics that will be covered include:
- General test-taking strategies
- Subject-specific test-taking strategies
- Having knowledge of and advocating for one’s own accommodations for the STAAR in appropriate situations
- Positive self-talk and adjusting to stress and anxiety during the STAAR
- Strategies for using a live reader or a scribe
We will be asking the teachers for the following:
- to provide the student’s approximate current level of performance in the identified skill areas
- to provide the student’s copy of the STAAR Accommodations so that we can tailor the instruction individually
- to integrate newly learned strategies into student’s lessons as much as possible so that the skills are second-nature when the STAAR is taken
After the course is completed, we will be providing the opportunity for the students to continue on with individualized instruction.
For more information about the content of this section contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyern@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9361.
Game of Life
Is the game of life a game of chance or choice?
Throughout life, we all make choices and navigate roadblocks daily. Students heading into high school are faced with a number of challenges as they transition to adult life. Students with visual impairments often benefit from additional instruction related to concepts such as self-determination and self-advocacy, career exploration, and socializing with peers. Together, we will develop skills in these areas while encouraging students to be leaders in their own lives.
In this weekend course, students and their parents must attend together. Students will be taught by teaching staff in Short-Term Programs while parents will attend a conference portion hosted by the Outreach department. Limited on-campus hotel lodging may be available for adults. Families are encouraged to contact their Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) counselor or local school district to request financial assistance with travel and lodging. However, if TWC is unable to provide financial support, TSBVI will cover the costs. Students will reside in the Short-Term Programs dorm.
The goal is for students to understand ways that they can “step up” as they transition to adult life, while parents will learn ways to “step back,” as they support their students with this transition.
The program will include information about:
- Self-determination and self-advocacy as an individual with a visual impairment
- Transition planning and graduation plans
- Development and support of skills in the expanded core areas at home and in the community
- Exploration of post-secondary options, including opportunities at Criss Cole Rehabilitation Center and the Post-Secondary Programs on the TSBVI campus
- Experiences shared by other parents and students who have made this transition
For additional information about the content of this section contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyern@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9361.
Elementary Access to Academic Skills – Spring
Access to Academics classes teach access skills in a small group setting, usually two to three students with a teacher. Low Vision (Sunday-Wednesday only), Math and Assistive Technology are the instructional areas most frequently addressed.
Students attending an Elementary Access class typically learn skills such as:
- Reading and writing Nemeth Code
- Completing operations on the Cranmer abacus
- Word processing with a screen reader or screen enlarger
- Skills related to the use of optical devices for near, medial, and distance tasks
Students work on independent living skills, social skills, recreation & leisure, and self-determination, during after-school hours.
Students attending these week-long classes are asked to bring local assignments with them, and we provide two hours each day for students to work on them.
We request that local TVIs integrate newly learned skills into students’ daily lessons after the student completes this class. Daily practice is the best way to reinforce current skill levels and promote new learning. We can be available to help you with this by offering the following supports:
- Zoom online meetings
- Phone conversations
- Visits to TSBVI
Screen Reader Prerequisites
Students using a screen reader can learn to access the computer in two ways: using a keyboard or using a refreshable braille display.
Keyboard: appropriate for students with a basic knowledge of the alphabet, number, and punctuation keys. Students ideally should be able to type simple sentences. Help your student learn typing skills by using the free Talking Typer software from the American Printing House for the Blind (APH).
Refreshable braille display: appropriate for students who are comfortable typing on a Perkins brailler and who can transfer skills to the keys of a braille display. Please ensure your student has access to a braille display in the home district in order to build on skills after the class ends. If your student doesn’t have access to a braille display and you are interested in exploring instruction using this method, please contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyrn@tsbvi.edu or (512) 206-9361 to discuss your options.
To borrow a braille display, investigate:
- Your local ESC
- TSBVI Tech Loan Library
Software to be taught in the TSBVI class must be installed on a computer that the student can access for frequent practice after returning home, in order to maintain skills.
STAAR Test Taking Strategies
Grades 3–5
A new class is being offered this year, with the goal of preparing braille-reading students for the paper-based STAAR test. Students will have the opportunity to share these learning experiences with others who are also braille test takers.
Topics that will be covered include:
- General test taking strategies
- Subject-specific test taking strategies
- Having knowledge of and advocating for one’s own accommodations for the STAAR in appropriate situations
- Positive self talk and adjusting to stress and anxiety during the STAAR
- Strategies for using a live reader or a scribe
We will be asking the teachers for the following:
- to provide the student’s approximate current level of performance in the identified skill areas
- to provide the student’s copy of the STAAR Accommodations so that we can tailor the instruction individually
- to integrate newly learned strategies into student’s lessons as much as possible so that the skills are second-nature when the STAAR is taken
After the course is completed, we will be providing the opportunity for the students to continue on with individualized instruction.
For additional information about the content of this section contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyern@tsbvi.edu or 512- 206-9179.
Magical World of STEAM
The Independence Weekend classes offer theme-based learning opportunities to practice skills from the Expanded Core Curriculum. A class theme provides motivational, real-world relevance for learning, and students practice a range of interdisciplinary skills by working collaboratively to obtain meaningful products or experiences. Students also have the opportunity to share personal experiences with others who are blind or have low vision.
Does your student love Harry Potter, Magic Beasts, and other fantasy stories? If so we will use their interest to access STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) Instruction. By asking questions and having students work in groups to problem-solve possible solutions, we will build student motivation and engagement in rigorous academic content while having fun.
For additional information about the content of this section contact Kathryn Heitman at heitmank@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9388.
Junior Access to Academic Skills – Spring
Access to Academics classes teach access skills in a small group setting, usually two to three students with a teacher. Math and Assistive Technology are the instructional areas most frequently addressed. This year we offer these topics:
- Low Vision (Monday-Thursday)
- Math
- STAAR Test -Taking Strategies for Braille Testers
- Technology
STAAR Test -Taking Strategies
A new class is being offered this year, with the goal of preparing braille-reading students for the paper-based STAAR test. Students will have the opportunity to share these learning experiences with others who are also braille test takers.
Topics that will be covered include:
- General test-taking strategies
- Subject-specific test-taking strategies
- Having knowledge of and advocating for one’s own accommodations for the STAAR in appropriate situations
- Positive self-talk and adjusting to stress and anxiety during the STAAR
- Strategies for using a live reader or a scribe
We will be asking the teachers for the following:
- to provide the student’s approximate current level of performance in the identified skill areas
- to provide the student’s copy of the STAAR Accommodations so that we can tailor the instruction individually
- to integrate newly learned strategies into student’s lessons as much as possible so that the skills are second-nature when the STAAR is taken
After the course is completed, we will be providing the opportunity for the students to continue on with individualized instruction.
Students coming to work on screen reader skills must meet certain prerequisites as described below.
The Short-Term Programs teacher and the student’s local TSVI jointly determine objectives for each student (e.g., develop basic Algebra skills such as solving and graphing linear and quadratic equations; develop skills in using the Talking TI-84+ Graphing Calculator; use a screen reader or screen enlarger to create, edit, save and manage documents and to access the internet for research and recreation).
We will also ask you about your student’s current level of performance in the identified skill areas. The purpose of the class is to increase each student’s ability to access the academic curriculum (TEKS) by using a specific adaptive skill set.
We request that local TSVIs integrate newly learned skills into students’ daily lessons after the student completes this class. Daily practice is the best way to reinforce current skill levels and promote new learning. We can be available to help you with this by offering the following supports:
- Zoom online meetings
- Phone conversations
Screen Reader Prerequisites: Students using a screen reader can learn to access the computer in two ways: using a keyboard or using a refreshable braille display.
Keyboard: appropriate for students with a basic knowledge of alphabet, number, and punctuation keys. Students ideally should be able to type simple sentences. Help your student learn typing skills by using the free Talking Typer software from the American Printing House for the Blind (APH).
Refreshable braille display: appropriate for students who are comfortable typing on a Perkins brailler and who can transfer skills to the keys of a braille display. Please ensure your student has access to a braille display in the home district in order to build on skills after the class ends. If your student doesn’t have access to a braille display and you are interested in exploring instruction using this method, please contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyern@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9361 to discuss your options.
To borrow a braille display, investigate:
- Your local ESC
- TSBVI Tech Loan Library
Software to be taught in the TSBVI class must be installed on a computer that the student can access for frequent practice after returning home, in order to maintain skills.
For additional information about the content of this section please contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at wibbenmeyern@tsbvi.edu or 512- 206-9361.
In the Driver’s Seat: An Introduction to Safe Driving with Low Vision
A Short-Term Program for Students and Their Families
For most teenagers, driving is not only a dream, but a rite of passage. Students with low vision often wonder, “Will I be able to drive?” Determining the answer to this question is a process between the students and their families which involves gathering facts, facing emotions, and ultimately making important decisions. In this weekend workshop, students and families will explore the topic of driving with low vision.
Students can NOT be considered for this program if:
- They do not meet the visual criteria to drive in the state of Texas including distance acuity of 20/200 or better and an uninterrupted visual field of 140°. Please verify with the student’s eye doctor before making a referral.
- They are unable to attend with a parent or guardian.
Questions Addressed Through Learning Objectives
- What are the visual qualifications for driving and obtaining a license in the state of Texas?
- What steps are needed to develop pre-driver readiness skills?
- Can I use a bioptic (mounted telescope lens system) to drive?
- What tools and skills are needed for a student to make driving a safe choice?
- What are the costs and time commitments to obtaining a driver’s license?
- If I can’t drive, what are some alternate forms of transportation I can use to attain independence and control over my life?
Who is Eligible for Participation in This Event?
- Students in grades 9-12, who are learning from a curriculum on or close to grade level, who meet the visual acuity (20/200 or better) and visual field (uninterrupted field of 140°) requirements to drive in Texas.
- Older students who meet eligibility criteria will be given preference.
- Students and their parent or guardian must attend the full program.
Where Will This Event Take Place?
The activities will take place in the James C. Durkel Conference Center on the TSBVI campus. Special activities are planned for students and for parents, providing them an opportunity to talk about their concerns with peer attendees. We will also hear from adult and young adult low vision drivers and non-drivers, a certified driving instructor, and a low vision specialist.
For additional information about the content of this section, contact Cindy Bachofer at bachoferc@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9434.
High School Independence Weekend: Outdoor Challenge
The Independence Weekend classes offer project-based learning opportunities to practice skills from the Expanded Core Curriculum. A class theme provides the motivational, real-world relevance for learning, and students practice a range of interdisciplinary skills by working collaboratively to obtain meaningful products or experiences. Students also have the opportunity to share personal experiences with others who are visually impaired.
The weekend provides an overnight outdoor camping experience for students in grades 9–12. During the class, students participate in activities such as outdoor cooking, setting up and breaking down a campsite, low ropes course activities, team-building games, and a guided nature walk. Students practice environmental awareness and learn about outdoor clothing and equipment needs (e.g., tents, sleeping bags, lanterns, camping cookware, and food). The weekend provides opportunities for students to practice self-determination and social skills through problem-solving, goal setting and attainment, active listening, and assertive communication.
This class includes activities that may require a Retinal Precaution Waiver.
For additional information about the content of this section contact Annie Biondi at biondia@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9179.
City Travel for COMS and their Students
City Travel for COMS and their Students is a class where the student and his or her O&M Specialist (COMS) come to Austin together to learn and practice a variety of skills needed in a busy metropolitan area. Many students with visual impairments throughout Texas are ready to learn about traveling in a metropolitan area—but it’s nearly impossible for their COMS to find either time or a location to address these skills. Here is the solution!
Would you like to have the time and opportunity to teach skills like these:
- Bus travel
- Commuter train travel
- Busy downtown one-way and two-way streets
- Complex lighted intersections
- Large indoor and outdoor malls with escalators
- Large buildings with banks of elevators and revolving doors
- A large university campus (the University of Texas at Austin)
- Much more!
Each COMS will design their own three-day schedule based on their student’s needs. The O&M Consultant for the TSBVI City Travel program, will facilitate your individual program and be available as a resource to you.
TSVIs: Talk with your student’s COMS before referring to this class! Only student-COMS pairs can be accepted.
Students and COMS will arrive on campus on Thursday late afternoon or evening, and leave on Sunday before noon. Please discuss your travel options with us, and don’t allow transportation issues to keep a student from attending.
Expenses
- TSBVI will pay for transportation and all other costs for students.
- We ask that your district provide transportation support to the O&M Specialist.
- If your district says that they will not cover your costs, we can offer the following:
- The Outreach Department at TSBVI will assist with transportation for the O&M Specialists (COMS).
- TSBVI can house up to eight COMS (with shared rooms) on our campus at no cost. There will be access to inexpensive meals in our cafeteria or meals can be prepared on campus. There are also several good restaurants within walking distance of our campus.
- If even this is unacceptable to your district, please contact Sara Merritt, Program Director, directly and she will try to work with you in finding arrangements.
For additional information about the content of this section contact Joanne Rodgers at rodgersj@tsbvi.edu or 512-206-9449.