Courtney is in the 4^th grade at Stanley Elementary with Mr. Irey as her teacher.  She also has Mrs. Gorder for two classes.  Courtney participates in all the classes her sighted peers do. Her work is Brailled, or made for her to understand tactually, or completed orally.  Our vision para-professional, Mrs. Fulton, and Courtney interact very well and also have an enjoyable time together.  Mrs. Fulton also assists with adopting many of Courtney’s books and assignments.

Mr. Irey, Courtney’s classroom teacher, is the varsity wrestling coach and is an assistant football coach. Mr. Irey gives those working with Courtney the freedom to modify Courtney’s curriculum to fit her needs.  He may also teach Courtney some wrestling moves to help her keep her siblings in line.

Courtney has a peer tutor working with her in physical education and she also attends hydrotherapy (aerobics and strengthening in the pool).  A peer tutor works Courtney in the pool and keeps her heart rate pumping.

Braille class is the time that Courtney and the TVI (Teacher of the Visually Impaired) spend on Braille and other specific skills for Courtney’s needs, such as Braille reading and writing, and technology skills.

I have had the privilege of being Courtney’s teacher since she was three years old.  I was the early childhood special needs teacher in Stanley, working mostly with students with language delays.  Then in comes Courtney, and our journey together began!  I can hardly wait to see where it takes us. 

Karen Colbenson

Teacher of the Visually Impaired