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VIDBE-Q Volume 63 Issue 3
in order to travel to see their students. For some teachers, this travel actually involves a
plane to rural and remote areas of a state!
Teachers, O&Ms and other professionals in our field need support and
information for serving diverse children and adults. Partnering with paraeducators,
interveners, family members and educators from different disciplines requires
knowledge that is highly portable and tailorable to a variety of contexts where students
require access for learning. One supply that most teachers and students can relate to is
the need for a good backpack. At DVIDB, we encourage our members to think about a
virtual, "metaphorical" backpack for the coming school year. We want you to consider
putting us in your backpack to support you at the appropriate times and places where
you need us. As a community of educators, we create, revise, and share knowledge
about what students with visual impairment and deafblindness need to thrive.
In January, we gather with all of our sister divisions at the Council for Exceptional
Children's convention in Indianapolis. Not only will this be a time for sharing content and
community, we will also be addressing some of our challenges as a diverse, low
incidence group. On January 29th, save the date for a pre-convention workshop on
students with multiple disabilities and students with cortical visual impairment. We will
host this one day workshop just prior to our international convention to maximize your
time and travel budget.
Prior to our winter gathering, you can help celebrate your colleagues by
nominating someone who inspires you for an award. Our member organization is
powered by volunteers and if you are ready to lead through service, please consider
running for a position on our board. Committee work is one way to develop consensus,