A Step Forward

A Step Forward

By Kassandra MaloneyEducation
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A Step Forward episodes

  • 165. "The Transition Skills Our Students with Visual Impairments are Missing" with Carrie Williams


    Welcome to another episode of A Step Forward with Carrie Williams, Director of Student Disability Services at Texas A&M University-Commerce, in “The Transition Skills Our Students with Visual Impairments are Missing”. Explore the complexities of preparing students with disabilities for the leap from high school to college. They discuss the vital differences between secondary and post-secondary education, the importance of collaboration with outside agencies, and the role of technology and self-advocacy in helping students, particularly those with visual impairments, succeed in higher education.


    🔍 In This Episode:

    • Understanding the Differences: Carrie explains the crucial differences between secondary and post-secondary education and why preparation is key.

    • Empowering Student Advocacy: Learn the importance of teaching self-advocacy skills to help students with disabilities succeed in college.

    • Making Smart College Choices: Get expert tips on choosing the right college based on size, layout, transportation, and accommodations for students with disabilities.

    • Bridging the K-12 to College Gap: Kassy and Carrie highlight the importance of knowledge sharing between K-12 and post-secondary educators.

    • Personalized Accommodations: Discover how to treat accommodations as access points that empower students to take responsibility for their learning.

    • Preparing for the Future: Understand the importance of early connection with disability services to ensure students are fully supported from day one.

    • 🎯 Key Takeaways:

      • Empowerment Through Advocacy: The importance of teaching students with disabilities to advocate for themselves in a college setting.

      • Collaboration and Resources: The need for educators to connect with local agencies and vocational rehabilitation services to equip students with the necessary tools for independence.

      • Adapting to Technology: Emphasizing both high-tech and low-tech solutions to meet the diverse needs of students.

      • Personalized Support: Tailoring support to the unique needs of each student, ensuring accessibility and a focus on lifelong learning.

      • Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!


        See the whole podcast video on our Youtube Channel: https://youtu.be/xWtdkOvR1i0


        📢 Join the Conversation!

        Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about making the most out of your online presentations. ⬇️


        Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋


        Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads


        📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:

        Sept. 19-20: "TVI Online Symposium" | Conference for TVI's: https://tvisymposium.com

        January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialists: https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/


        FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:

        https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/

        https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence



        32 min
      • 164. "The Empowering Shift from Business to Braille" Laura Jones’ Passionate TVI Journey

        In this episode, we explore Laura’s remarkable transition from a business career to becoming a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (TVI). Her journey is a powerful example of how personal experiences and a passion for helping others can lead to a deeply fulfilling career in special education. 

        In This Episode:

        • Learn how Laura’s volunteer work with visually impaired children ignited her passion for special education.
        • Understand how Laura’s own experiences with visual impairment have shaped her empathetic and effective teaching approach.
        • Gain insights into Laura’s training at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and how it prepared her for success.
        • Explore Laura’s innovative strategies for teaching Braille, particularly to early learners.
        • Discover how Laura works closely with paraprofessionals and adapts her teaching methods to meet the diverse needs of her students.
        • Key Takeaways:

          • Laura’s shift from business to special education highlights the power of following your passion.
          • Personal experiences can enhance your ability to connect with and support your
          • students.
          • Teamwork with paraprofessionals and parents is crucial in providing comprehensive support to visually impaired students.
          • Don’t forget to Follow us 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!

             📢 Join the Conversation!

            Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a

            comment below and let’s chat about making the most out of your online presentations. ⬇️

            Thanks for listening, and see you in the next

            episode! 👋

            Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at ⁠https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads⁠

            📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:

            Sept. 19-20: "TVI Online Symposium" | Conference for TVI's

            ⁠https://tvisymposium.com⁠

            January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialists

            ⁠https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/⁠

            FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:

            ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/⁠

            ⁠https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence⁠

             



            30 min
          • 163. "4 Tips to Master Your Online Presentations"

            In today’s fast-paced digital world, creating an engaging online presentation is more challenging than ever. As distractions compete for your audience’s attention, it's crucial to craft a presentation that not only captivates but also maintains interest. Whether you’re preparing for the TVI Symposium with Allied Independence or another online event, these expert tips will help you deliver a standout presentation.

            In this episode:

            • Discover why compelling content is the backbone of any successful online presentation, especially for events like the TVI Symposium.
            • Learn how to use high-quality visuals and interactive elements to keep your audience engaged and invested in your presentation.
            • Explore creative methods beyond traditional slides, including dynamic formats and alternative media, to make your presentation memorable.
            • Get tips on optimizing your lighting, audio, and background to ensure a professional and distraction-free presentation.
            • Get actionable advice on how to review guidelines, submit your proposal, and effectively engage your
            • audience to make your mark at the upcoming TVI Symposium and O&M Symposium

              Don’t forget to Follow us 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!

               📢 Join the Conversation!

              Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a

              comment below and let’s chat about making the most out of your online presentations. ⬇️

              Thanks for watching, and see you in the next

              video! 👋

              Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at ⁠https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads⁠

              📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:

              Sept. 19-20: "TVI Online Symposium" | Conference for TVI's

              ⁠https://tvisymposium.com⁠

              January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialists

              ⁠https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/⁠

              FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:

              ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/⁠

              ⁠https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence⁠


              9 min
            • 162. "The #1 Tool to Keep a Digital Paper Trail" as a Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments

              Welcome to Season Seven of our podcast! We’re kicking off this season with an extraordinary guest, Ruby, whose dedication and innovative approach in the field of education for visually impaired students is truly inspiring.

              In this episode, we dive into Ruby’s remarkable journey from her early beginnings in the Philippines to her impactful career in Indiana. With over twenty years in education and twelve years dedicated to teaching visually impaired students, Ruby’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and profound commitment.

               In This Episode:

              • From volunteer work in the Philippines to becoming a Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) in Indiana, Ruby’s career is a testament to adaptability, passion, and commitment.
              • Discover how Ruby’s love for
              • languages led her to master Braille and earn the Library of Congress UEB
                Braille Transcriber certification, significantly impacting her teaching carreer.
              • Learn about Ruby’s transition from an assistant teacher to a full-fledged TVI, overcoming challenges with her international credentials along the way.
              • Explore how Ruby’s innovative use of OneNote has transformed her workflow as an itinerant teacher, enhancing her ability to support students effectively.
              • Ruby shares her approach to maintaining a healthy work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of self-care in sustaining her effectiveness as an educator.
              • Ruby offers valuable insights and encouragement for TVIs and educators dedicated to supporting visually impaired students.
              • We’re grateful to Ruby for sharing her inspiring story and valuable insights. We hope this episode motivates and

                enlightens you as we continue to explore the incredible world of education.
                Stay tuned for more engaging discussions in Season Seven!

                 Don’t forget to Follow🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!

                 📢 Join the Conversation!

                Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about making the most out of your online presentations. ⬇️

                Thanks for listening, and see you in the next

                episode! 👋

                Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at ⁠https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads⁠

                📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:

                Sept. 19-20: "TVI Online Symposium" | Conference for TVI's

                ⁠https://tvisymposium.com⁠

                January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialists

                ⁠https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/⁠

                FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:

                ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/⁠

                ⁠https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence⁠


                14 min
              • 161. "3 Key Ways Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments Can Make 2024-2025 the Best School Year Yet"

                Welcome to Season Seven of A Step Forward!

                I’m thrilled to kick off this new chapter and share the exciting developments we have in store. After a hiatus to reflect on how we can better serve you, we’re back with fresh perspectives and dynamic content. This season is all about engaging with you in new ways and providing

                more immediate, relevant content.

                In this episode, we cover:

                •  I explain my recent hiatus from podcasting, the reflections it sparked, and how it led to a desire to pivot our approach for more immediate relevance.
                • We’re integrating YouTube into our offerings, moving to a video format to provide shorter, bite-sized content that you can access anytime.
                • A look at how I navigated the IEP evaluation process and the decision to embrace new interests, including attending a Latin dance conference to reignite my passion and creativity.
                • Exciting developments for Season Seven, including YouTube integration for more accessible content, and upcoming events like the TVI Symposium on September 20th and 21st, and the O&M Symposium in January.
                • Insights on the evolving landscape of education, emerging leadership, technological advancements, and the importance of community building. Plus, strategies for a successful year, including time management, engaging in conversations, team alignment, and mastering crucial conversations.
                • Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the podcast, there’s something for everyone this season .I’m excited about the possibilities this season holds and hope you find these updates and strategies helpful. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and connect with me on social media. Your feedback and support mean the world to me.

                  Don’t forget to Follow us so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!

                  📢 Join the Conversation!

                  Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about making the most out of

                  your online presentations. ⬇️

                  Thanks for watching, and see you in the next episode! 👋

                  Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at ⁠https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads⁠

                  📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:

                  Sept. 19-20: "TVI Online Symposium" | Conference for TVI's

                  ⁠https://tvisymposium.com⁠

                  January 29-31:

                  "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" |
                  Conference for O&M Specialists

                  ⁠https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/⁠

                  FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:

                  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/⁠

                  ⁠https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence⁠


                  #AStepForward #PodcastSeasonSeven #YouTubeIntegration #EducationUpdates #TVISymposium #OMSymposium #LatinDance #CommunityBuilding #ProfessionalGrowth

                  30 min
                • Season 7! "The Empowering Shift from Business to Braille" with Laura Jones

                  Welcome to another episode of A Step Forward with Laura Jones in "The Empowering Shift from Business to Braille," where we dive deep into the world of educational transformation through the lens of teaching visually impaired and neurodivergent students. In this compelling episode, our speaker—Laura Jones—shares their unique journeys and offers profound insights into fostering an inclusive learning environment.

                  🔍 In This Episode:

                  • Career Transition: Follow Laura’s shift from business to becoming a dedicated Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI).

                  • Personal Journeys: Discover Laura’s experiences overcoming challenges and finding inspiration through volunteering and immersive programs.

                  • Teaching Braille: Learn about the techniques used to teach Braille to young learners and support neurodiverse students.

                  • Empathy in Education: Explore how an empathetic, student-centered approach helps address neurodivergent learners’ needs and promotes their success.

                  • Inclusivity and Connection: Understand the importance of peer connections and inclusivity in education for students with lower vision.

                  • 🎯 Key Takeaways:

                    • Overcoming Challenges: Insightful strategies for dealing with slow progress and low morale among Braille learners.

                    • Building Confidence: Techniques for motivating students and reinforcing their progress with positive feedback.

                    • Continuous Growth: The value of ongoing self-reflection and adapting teaching methods to better meet student needs.

                    • Long-Term Impact: Hear how the foundational skills and support provided at a young age can shape a student's future academic and personal achievements.

                    • Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the BELL ICON 🔔 so you never miss out on our latest content and updates on the TVI and O&M Symposiums!

                      📢 Join the Conversation!

                      Have questions or tips of your own? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about making the most out of your online presentations. ⬇️

                      Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video! 👋

                      Like what you see/hear? Grab your free resources at https://alliedindependenceonline.com/free-downloads


                      📅 ACADEMIC CALENDAR:

                      Sept. 19-20: "TVI Online Symposium" | Conference for TVI's

                      https://tvisymposium.com

                      January 29-31: "International Orientation & Mobility Online Symposium" | Conference for O&M Specialists

                      https://www.orientationandmobilitysymposium.com/


                      FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL:

                      https://www.instagram.com/alliedindependence/

                      https://www.facebook.com/alliedindependence


                      30 min
                    • 160. Part 2 - Global Perspectives on Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices in O&M with Molly Pasley and Panelists

                      Welcome to Part 2 of "Global Perspectives on Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices in O&M with Molly Pasley and Panelists." Having laid the groundwork in Part 1, we now shift our focus to the practical aspects. How do we embody a culturally responsive orientation and mobility approach?

                      Exploring the diverse facets of independence for learners, we delve into the barriers, varied perspectives, and effective strategies to achieve these goals. And yes, we might finally uncover what happened with Uncle Steve!

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                      38 min
                    • 159. Global Perspectives on Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices in O&M with Molly Pasley and Panelists Part 1

                      Explore the rich tapestry of Culturally Responsive Teaching Practices in Orientation and Mobility (O&M) on this insightful podcast episode with Molly Pasley and a distinguished panel, originally presented at the International O&M Symposium last January 24-26, 2024.

                      This podcast episode offers a global perspective on inclusive education, exploring strategies and insights that transcend borders.

                      Join us as we transform symposium discussions into an engaging audio experience, unraveling the universal impact of culturally responsive teaching in O&M.

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                      27 min
                    • 158. Developing Creative Lesson Plans with Julia Hutchinson

                      In this episode, join us in a captivating conversation with the brilliant Julia Hutchinson, an esteemed expert in education and creativity. Dive deep into the world of teaching as Julia shares invaluable insights on "Developing Creative Lesson Plans."

                      Whether you're an experienced educator looking to revitalize your teaching approach or a newcomer seeking guidance, this episode provides actionable tips and innovative ideas to elevate your lesson planning game. Tune in and be inspired to create an educational environment that sparks curiosity, encourages critical thinking, and fosters a love for learning.

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                      37 min
                    • 157. Expanding the O&M Profession in Cairo with Jay Whipple

                      Explore the global impact of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) education in this podcast episode featuring Jay Whipple, a distinguished O&M specialist based in the United States. Join us as Jay shares his transformative experience collaborating with the Baseera Foundation to empower aspiring O&M professionals in the dynamic city of Cairo.

                      Tune in now and join us on a virtual journey through the streets of Cairo, exploring the boundless possibilities of expanding the O&M profession on a global scale.

                      To delve deeper into the Baseera Foundation, check out their website below.

                      https://baseerafoundation.org/

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                      28 min

                    About A Step Forward

                    From the publisher's feed

                    An Orientation and Mobility Specialist's roadmap to increasing their students' independence while staying sane in the work place.