The Federal Quota Program

Various braille technology devices on a purple table.

What is the Federal Quota Program?  In 1879, Congress enacted the Federal Act to Promote the Education of the Blind to provide specialized educational materials to students who are blind or low vision and is referred to as “The Federal Quota Program.”  Why is it important?  Students who are blind or low vision deserve the […]

Working with Medical and Educational Professionals

A happy pediatrician holding a baby with other medical professionals standing behind.

You’ve probably heard the expression that it takes a village to raise a child. That expression is especially true when it comes to a child who is blind or low vision with additional disabilities. You may have found that the number of medical and educational personnel you’ve met since your child’s diagnosis has been considerable. […]

Reflecting on a Year of Growth: APH ConnectCenter in 2023

APH ConnectCenter team members from left to right: Amber Bland, Tony Susnick, Lori Scharff, Alan Lovell, Katie Frederick, Pris Rogers, Richard Rueda, Olaya Landa-Vialard, Lee Huffman, and Melisa Matthews

It’s time to reflect on the incredible progress made by APH ConnectCenter in 2023. This year has been marked by a milestone anniversary, a new streamlined and cohesive website, the introduction of our newsletter—the APH ConnectCenter Quarterly, and a steadfast commitment to providing information on empowering independence for individuals who are blind or low vision.  […]

Peer Highlights: APH VisionAware Advisors’ Inspiring Achievements in 2023 

collage of peers: Elizabeth Sammons on the left, Deanna DeAnna Quietwater Noriega to her right, Lynda Lambert far right, Liz Bottner in the center under Deanna, Max Ivy on bottom right

For ten-plus years, volunteer APH VisionAware Peer Advisors have contributed and shaped nearly all of the content on the site today. As a content manager, I am grateful for the expertise, talent, and time the advisors share –assuring VisionAware is a one-stop resource for individuals, family and friends, and professionals in the field of blindness […]