NDVS/SB Houseparent
When you ask students or adults who attend short-term programs at NDVS/SB about their “favorite” staff member, you will often hear a houseparent’s name (much to the chagrin of our instructors!). Houseparents, part-time employees who work evenings and overnights during STP weeks at NDVS/SB, are often college students or young adults who form deep connections to the students and clients. They ensure that those students and clients are “safe and occupied in the evenings,” explains Erin Storhoff, who serves as the supervisor for the houseparents. “They help students complete homework, go on outings, and do other activities in-house, like play board games or in the gym.” They also make dinner and eat with the students and clients, which allows them time to talk and get to know each other. Because their time together is often unstructured, houseparents must be creative and responsible, as well as friendly and helpful. Because they only work during STP weeks, “houseparents don’t work many hours,” Erin explains, but they get a “rewarding experience.” Having experience working with individuals who are low vision or blind is not required, but houseparents must have the desire to learn about visual impairment, Erin says.
Over the next few weeks, we will be featuring some of our current houseparents on our Facebook page and on our website. First up is Cylee Walton. “Cylee is very outgoing, always cheerful, and very creative,” says Erin. She also has a visual impairment herself, which means “she is able to relate to our students and adults,” Erin explains. “She is always willing to jump in to help in any way that is needed.” Find out more about Cylee by reading on.
Tell us about yourself.
I am from Cavalier, ND, but I attend the University of North Dakota during the school year. I am currently a sophomore studying elementary education. I was born and raised in North Dakota with my four siblings. My parents are loving and supportive figures in my life. They have supported me on every adventure that I have been interested in.
What other jobs have you held?
In the past couple of years, I have held quite a few jobs, such as a barista, a nanny, a customer service representative, and a house cleaner.
How did you end up as a houseparent at NDVS/SB?
I have been working at the School for the Blind for about two years. I applied for the position at the School because I was associated with the organization throughout my education. My former outreach teacher contacted me to inform me of the position and encouraged me that I would be a perfect fit. This job appealed to me because of the impact it was going to make on my life and the students’ lives. I have such a heart for students with visual impairments, and this position allows me to share my love for them.
In your own words, how would you describe your job as a houseparent?
My role at NDVS/SB is to bring a positive and encouraging attitude to these students who attend short-term programs and ensure they feel supported and comfortable. As a houseparent, I have many responsibilities, such as providing meals, ensuring the safety of the students, treating them with love and respect, and making sure they have fun.
The students and individuals who attend these programs bring me such joy and happiness. They all have unique personalities and characteristics that I love to get to know. I love coming to work because I get the opportunity to get to know them on a deeper level every time. Also, they have taught me something new every time I talk to them.
Is there anything you think people would be surprised to know or learn about NDVS/SB?
Individuals would be surprised by the joy and happiness that the students bring to the program. Many of these students or individuals may not be able to see, but they have such joy and love for others. Seeing the students and how they love to pursue life differently has been an incredible honor.
What are your hobbies?
Some hobbies I am interested in are running, being active in the Chi Alpha sorority, and hanging out with my friends.
What are your future plans?
I aspire to obtain a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and additionally earn my master's degree in visual impairment. With these credentials, I want to pursue a career as an outreach teacher at the School for the Blind.
How has working at NDVS/SB affected your life or your outlook?
Because of the School for the Blind, my perception of life has been altered in a positive direction. These students and staff members have taught me that everybody is different in their unique ways. These interactions that I've had as a houseparent have made a lasting impact on my life. Through these experiences, I'm choosing to pursue a career in working with individuals with visual impairments. I love coming to work and making an impact on students' lives.
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a houseparent, reach out to Erin Storhoff (estorhoff@nd.gov, 701-795-2716) or Cindy Williams, Student Program Coordinator (ckwillia@nd.gov, 701-795-2704).