Understanding the What and the How of the Science of Reading for Students with Visual Impairments
This presentation will examine just what the Science of Reading is and how we can support our students with visual impairments in their reading instruction.
By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:
Summarize the definition of the Science of Reading SOR)
Understand and recreate several models of reading based on research
Describe the pathway that typical readers' brains follow when they read
List the components of reading recommended by the Science of Reading
Explain how dyslexia affects readers with visual impairments
Gather ideas for accommodations and resources to support reading in students with visual impairments
Overall, the goal is for participants to come away from this interactive session feeling empowered by research to better support their students with visual impairments in reading.
*Registration is open to TSVIs, O&Ms, Special Education Teachers, Classroom Teachers, Reading Teachers, SLPs, and beyond!
Registration
Registrations for Fall Conference are due by Wednesday, November 5, 2025. The conference registration fee is $50, which includes a light breakfast and lunch. ACVREP CEU’s will be available for O&M Instructors. Lodging will be available at NCECBVI for those traveling in from a distance (for a $50 fee), just make sure to complete the lodging section on the registration form.
Leah Read
Leah Read is a teacher of students with visual impairments who is also a Licensed Dyslexia Therapist and Certified Academic Language Therapist, Qualified Instructor. She has 37 years of teaching experience in the public school system. Her experience ranges from serving in self-contained classes for students with visual impairments, a special education kindergarten class, and resource classrooms, where she interacted with students having a variety of disabilities.
Additionally, she has worked as a trainer of teachers for LETRS and for a structured literacy program for students with dyslexia. In 2020, she was hired by the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired as a dyslexia and math specialist, where she combines her experience with learning disabilities with her passion for working with students with visual impairments.
AER Auction
We’re excited to see the AER auction return for the Fall Conference! It's so fun to see the variety of items that people donate for the auction, and we hope you will consider bringing an item(s), basket, or gift card to support the Nebraska Chapter of AER, which in turn supports students and members statewide. Anything appropriate for school is welcome! If you have any questions about the AER Auction or information about what you plan to donate, please contact Audrey Graves, agraves@esu4.net.
