What if learning English could open the door to independence, education, and meaningful work? In this episode of Blind Abilities, Jeff Thompson sits down with English Language Learning specialist Abbi Mayland from State Services for the Blind of Minnesota. Abbi shares how she helps students who are blind, DeafBlind, or low vision — and who may not speak English—build the skills they need to succeed.

Using creative, hands-on teaching methods like real objects, conversation, audio learning, and Braille, Abbi supports students from all over the world as they grow in confidence and communication. Many begin with little or no English, but soon find themselves holding real conversations and navigating daily life with greater independence.

If you or your family member is learning English and facing vision challenges, this episode offers hope, encouragement, and a clear message: language does not have to be a barrier—success is possible.

Links of interests:

The Spectacle Newsletter

Youth Services at SSB

To find out more about the services provided at State Services for the Blind, and what they can do for you, contact Shane DeSantis at [email protected] or call Shane at 651-385-5205.

Thanks for listening!

Full Transcript