by Paul Olson
NDVS/SB Superintendent
As we close out another successful school year, the NDVS/SB staff can reflect on months of hard work and remarkable service. While summer offers a chance to slow down, the mission to serve individuals with low vision or blindness doesn’t take a break—and neither do we.
Our dedicated team has spent the past year supporting students and adult learners across the state. Their commitment is unwavering, and while the pace may shift in the coming months, our work continues with purpose and enthusiasm.
Professional growth doesn’t stop at the end of the school year. Many of our newer staff members recently participated in a braille training. Braille Fun 101 demonstrated to these new staff the continued importance of braille as the best medium of literacy for many. Meanwhile, teachers and instructors engaged in blindfold training to deepen their understanding of the daily challenges faced by our students. These exercises aren’t just symbolic; they build empathy and sharpen the skills that define our quality of care and instruction.
This past year has also brought significant change to NDVS/SB. We’ve welcomed new staff who are learning the ropes, while our long-serving team members are embracing new methods and tools. As the needs of our students and adult learners evolve, so must we. That’s why we’re putting a greater emphasis on continuous learning and professional development.
In particular, we’re expanding our capacity to assess and integrate assistive technology—a growing need among our learners. Targeted training this spring has laid the groundwork, and we’re grateful for legislative support that will allow us to add a new position focused on assistive technology after the first year of the next fiscal biennium. By the way, our next biennium will begin July 1st.
As we head into summer, we look forward to a season of rejuvenation, reflection, and preparation. With planning and ongoing growth, NDVS/SB is poised to have an even greater impact in the year ahead.