Expanded Core Curriculum

Students select tools and build skills that best support their access to curriculum. Based on individual plans, this may include braille instruction, tactile or auditory skill building, adaptations to visual instruction like large print or magnification, and varied communication modes. 

Providing students of all ages, the opportunity to learn about different careers along with responsibilities associated with the workplace is vital to their future success. To expand their knowledge and open the doors to possibility, students systematically explore their own strengths and interests in a well-planned manner. 

Daily tasks performed at school and home, which are necessary to live as independently as possible often require specialized guidance for students who are Blind or have low vision. These skills, which prepare students to manage their daily lives as adults, include cooking, personal hygiene, time and money management, cleaning, clothing care, and organization. 

Teaching physical recreation and leisure skills to students who are Blind or have low vision develops the life-long ability to seek out and participate in meaningful and healthy activities throughout their lives. While many traditional activities and sports are valuable to students, they often require adaptations and must be planned and deliberately taught in a way that focuses on the development of lasting skills.

The ability to set and achieve goals in life through believing in oneself, self-advocating, and understanding one’s own strengths, needs, and preference is vital. Through learning to set goals, problem solve, participate in decisions impacting their lives, and make appropriate choices, students set themselves up for future success. 

Maximizing the use of all five senses, including functional vision, hearing, touch, taste, and smell is a learned skill for students who are Blind or have low vision. This should be embedded into all areas of a student’s school day and dorm life. 

Since incidental learning through observation is not always available for individuals who are Blind or have low vision, social skills often require instruction. Skills such as shaking hands, looking towards others when speaking, and participating appropriately in conversations are among the skills taught.