Course Offerings

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 6 – 10, 2025 – Systems of Equations and Inequalities
• April 13 – 17, 2025 – 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 [email protected].

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

• Access to Academic Skills 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:
  • STAAR Test Taking Strategies for Braille Readers (see description below)
  • Technology (screen readers, refreshable braille displays, and notetakers)
    • Prerequisite for screen readers: type at least 10 wpm or have a refreshable braille display
  • Math (abacus, Nemeth code, tactile graphics, graphing)
  • Low Vision (magnification tools, anatomy of the eye and eye conditions, keyboard shortcuts, academic accommodations)

  STAAR Test Taking Strategies

  The goal of this topic is to prepare 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

For more information about the content of this section contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at [email protected] or 512-206-9361.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

The ECC 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.

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. In this elementary STEAM class, students will engage in hands-on activities that integrate these five disciplines.

The goal of every lesson is to foster creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.

There will be a focus on:

• large print and tactile drawing
• brainstorming ideas
• developing fine motor skills
• using low-tech tools to make a variety of products

The Magical World of STEAM provides a fun and engaging way for students to explore their interests and develop valuable skills for the 21st century.

For additional information about the content of this section contact Kathryn Heitman at [email protected] or 512-206-9388.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

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. Hotel lodging is 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. Some meals provided for families; student meals covered. 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 [email protected] or 512-206-9361.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

• Access to Academics Skills 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:
  • STAAR Test Taking Strategies for Braille Readers (see description below)
  • Technology (screen readers, refreshable braille displays, and notetakers)
    • Prerequisite for screen readers: type at least 10 wpm or have a refreshable braille display
  • Math (abacus, Nemeth code, tactile graphics, graphing)

  STAAR Test Taking Strategies

  The goal of this topic is to prepare 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

For additional information about the content of this section contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at [email protected] or 512- 206-9361.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

Access to Academic Skills 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:

• STAAR Test Taking Strategies for Braille Readers (see description below)
• Technology (screen readers, refreshable braille displays, and notetakers)
  • Prerequisite for screen readers: type at least 10 wpm or have a refreshable braille display
• Math (abacus, Nemeth code, tactile graphics, graphing)
• Low Vision (magnification tools, anatomy of the eye and eye conditions, keyboard shortcuts, academic accommodations)

STAAR Test Taking Strategies

The goal of this topic is to prepare 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

For additional information about the content of this section please contact Nina Wibbenmeyer at [email protected] or 512- 206-9361.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

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 [email protected] or 512-206-9434.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

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 Eden Hagelman, 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 [email protected] or 512-206-9449.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

The Outdoor Exploration class provides high school students with the opportunity to build their comfort with the great outdoors through recreation and leisure activities and an overnight camping experience.

Activities are designed to promote team building and nature appreciation and have included:

• Low ropes course
• Guided hikes
• Rowing
• Archery
• Nature art and crafts
• Animal care
• Outdoor cooking

For additional information about the content of this section contact Annie Biondi at [email protected] or 512-206-9179.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!

The TSBVI Capitol Experience class is for high school aged students and has been offered during the past four legislative sessions, when the Texas legislature was meeting here in Austin. This class has provided students with unique and memorable experiences that help them learn about and maintain a true interest in Texas government. The students participate in activities on campus, around Austin, and at the state Capitol Complex, such as:

• Following a print or Braille map of the Capitol areas to be visited
• Internet research using the Texas Constitution to answer questions about the three branches of Texas government
• Lecture and discussion on the legislature’s budgetary process
• Role play of the process of creating and bringing a bill to the legislature for a vote
• Private meeting between each student and his or her local legislator (or assistant) to discuss an issue of concern to the student
• Use of various technologies to write answers to class questions, develop a list of questions for legislators, complete voter registration cards, write follow-up letters to legislators, and create resolutions to honor one another
• Public transportation to and a tour of the Capitol, including use of stairs and elevators throughout the capitol building
• Attendance at subcommittee meetings and meetings of the House and Senate in action, using low vision devices when appropriate

For additional information about the content of this section please contact Joanne Rodgers at [email protected] or 512- 206-9449.

Make a Short-Term Programs referral!