KLRU News Segment Overview

This news segment from KLRU is sponsored by Texas Mutual Insurance and focuses on the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired

• Location: Austin, Texas
• Established: 1916
• Program Levels: K-12 and post-secondary
  • Post-secondary program for students who have completed high school requirements but are not ready to live and work independently.

Curriculum and Skills Development

• Standard Curriculum: Aligns with other Texas schools
• Expanded Core Curriculum:
  • Focus on special skills for independence and success

Special Programs and Classes

• "On Air" Orientation and Mobility:
  • Teaches cane use and independent travel
  • Skills applied to living skills and personal independence
• Coffee Shop Skills:
  • Offers hands-on experience with professional coffee equipment
  • Some students have used these skills in jobs like at Starbucks

Student Experience and Independence

• Emphasis on demonstrating the independence and capabilities of blind students
• Encouragement of self-reliance and adaptability, especially for students who recently lost their vision
• Supportive environment where students can learn from each other

Career Development

• Electives: Courses like "Maps To"
  • Focus on career exploration
  • Example career interest: UN Rights lawyer

School Values

• Reinforces that visual impairment does not diminish individual worth
• Encourages students to pursue varied interests and careers
• Promotes the message that students can achieve a wide range of activities, despite visual impairments

Conclusion

• The segment highlights the empowering environment and comprehensive education offered at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.
• Sponsored by Texas Mutual Insurance.