Read Braille With Laura

Written by Samantha C Sinclair, with permission and input from Laura Hash.

Contact Samantha @ Samantha.christianfiction@Gmail.com

Have you ever dreamed of reading in the dark?

This might seem like an off the wall question. Stick around, and learn why I am asking.

After an accident took away the sight of Louis Braille at age five, he still wanted to learn. Braille is a six cell system that allows the blind and visually impaired to read. Yes, it can be read in the dark due to the fact touch of the fingers is how the person reads what is on the paper.

Twenty eight years ago, while doing student teaching for an elementary teaching degree Laura Hash was told about a masters program that would change her plans.
“A teacher told me about a masters program to become a VI teacher, and I decided to apply for it.”
Laura says after going through that program, she fell in love with it. Even after twenty eight years, Laura is still passionate about teaching Braille.

What are education requirements and work place?
“For me, it was a teaching certificate, and a masters degree,” shares Laura.
The requirements are still the same today. The job can be contract, or get a job with a specific school district.
“I do contract,” shares Laura.
Her business is fittingly named, “Read Braille”. Laura covers school districts in Kentucky.

What are job duties of a VI Teacher?
Job duties of a VI or Braille teacher include direct instruction to students. VI teachers use what is known as the Expanded Core Curriculum. Another important part of the job is consulting with classroom teachers and other school administration to make classroom modifications for Blind and visually impaired students.
Does Laura have a least favorite part of this job?
“Yes, working with other adults who do not think my students should be in a classroom.”

Could someone with a visual impairment perform this job?
The answer is yes. However, being a contract VI teacher could raise complications due to not being able to drive. However, according to Laura, it is still possible.
“Someone with a visual impairment could more easily do this job at a residential school setting because of the need to drive as a traveling VI teacher. It would be more difficult for a person with visual challenges.”

What does a braille teacher need to bring to the table?
Laura shares some must have qualities to perform well as a Braille teacher. Being self motivated, highly organized, team player, good time management are all important. One more, being compassionate could go a long way.
Also something important to bring to the table when working with a student? Laura shares encouraging students to push yourself, don’t ever give up, and show others what you are capable of.
What words does she have for school staff working with visually impaired and blind students?
“Treat your students like you do all your other students, always expect more from them than you think they can give.”
The next key point Laura shares is an important one to remember.
“Remember, it might take them more time to get it done.”

What is something Laura has learned in being a VI teacher?
Things don’t always work out in the classroom like you plan for them too on paper.”

Laura’s number one goal with all her students remains the same, and highly important. That goal is independence.

..Laura shares she had a lot of support going into this job, and she still does today. She also shares that day to day challenges are worth the end result.

On a personal note, I would like to say thank you to Laura. I was one of her students from third grade until graduating High School. We are good friends to this day, and I know she prays for me, and is always there.

From myself and Laura, thanks for reading.

God bless.