INSAIL 2026: Full Schedule

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11:00am EDT

9 Classroom Accessibility Adaptations for Students with Cortical Cerebral Visual Impairment

Monday September 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

Session Description: CVI is the leading cause of pediatric visual impairment, yet environmental barriers often hinder student access. This interactive session explores nine high-impact, zero/low-cost classroom adaptations. By leveraging Universal Design for Learning (UDL), participants will learn to optimize physical and digital spaces, from lighting to layout, to foster independence for students with CVI.

Session Abstract:
In the four years since this session first debuted, our understanding of Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) has evolved, but the physical classroom often remains stuck in the past. As the primary cause of visual impairment in children today, CVI requires educators to look beyond traditional "blindness" accommodations and focus on how the brain processes visual information.

This updated session bridges the gap between theory and practical classroom management. We move past expensive specialty equipment to focus on nine essential, no-cost adaptations that can be implemented immediately. By viewing the classroom through a CVI lens, we identify how "visual clutter", often disguised as cheerful decor, acts as a barrier to learning.

Drawing on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), we will demonstrate how strategic changes to furniture placement, lighting, organizational systems, and existing technology settings create a more accessible environment for students with CVI while simultaneously reducing cognitive load for the entire neurodiverse classroom.Participants will engage in: Visual Audits: Learning to "scan" a room for sensory competition. Tactical Rearrangement: Utilizing anchor points and simplified backgrounds to increase visual attention. Digital Scaffolding: Maximizing accessibility features already built into standard classroom tech.

Whether you are a general educator, a specialist, or an administrator, you will leave with a toolkit of "hidden in plain sight" strategies that transform a distracting environment into a supportive, accessible space for every learner.

Session Goals:

Attendees will identify three common environmental "visual stressors" (such as pattern complexity or sensory competition) that impede access for students with CVI.
Attendees will apply UDL-based physical adaptations including furniture orientation and color-coding to reduce visual fatigue and increase student independence.
Attends will optimize existing classroom technology using built-in accessibility features to provide high-contrast and simplified visual displays for complex learners.

Speakers

Emily Cantillon, PhD, TVI

Perkins School for the Blind

Emily Cantillon, Ph.D., TVI, is a Teacher of the Visually Impaired, providing direct instruction, consultation, and program leadership to support students with complex visual needs in both public and specialized settings while serving as the School-Age Lead CVI Teacher at Perkins... Read More →

Monday September 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

11:00am EDT

The Braillenote Evolve

Monday September 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Ready to transform the way you teach your braille students? Join us for an eye-opening session on the BrailleNote Evolve, the cutting-edge device that combines a laptop-like interface, integrated Braille display, and NVDA screen reader to make accessibility effortless.

Session Abstract:
Braille documents can be challenging for teachers unfamiliar with Braille code. This presentation will demonstrate how the BrailleNote Evolve—a device combining a laptop-like interface, Braille display, and NVDA screen reader—helps bridge the gap between teachers and students, fostering inclusion and accessibility in the classroom.

Participants will be introduced to the BrailleNote Family of products, the latest in mobile technology for students who are visually impaired. We will explore how these tools integrate with Office 365, enabling seamless collaboration through document sharing, email access, and productivity applications—all designed to support accessible learning environments.

Session Goals:

We will demonstrate at least three specific ways the BrailleNote Evolve integrates with existing classroom technology (e.g., Office 365, document sharing, email access) and outline two workflow improvements for teachers unfamiliar with Braille,
Participants will Identify at least two specific features from the BrailleNote Family and describe one practical application that supports their students.
We will identify one task that using the Braillenote Evolve will promote inclusion and collaboration between the student and their peers.

Speakers

Brian Goemmer, MAEd, COMS

Lab Computers, Inc.

Brian Goemmer brings over 20 years of experience as a technology consultant and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist, supporting vocational rehabilitation programs in Kentucky and Indiana, the Veterans Health Administration, and multiple school districts. His work focuses... Read More →

Monday September 14, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

1:30pm EDT

Empowering Educators Through Assistive Technology: Empowering Students by Empowering Teachers

Monday September 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Attendees will explore a variety of assistive technologies for students with visual impairments, including refreshable braille displays, magnification tools, embossers, beginning braille devices, STEM products, and accessibility software. Participants will learn how the Center for Assistive Technology Training supports teachers through resources, professional development, and ongoing guidance.

Session Abstract:
Attendees will explore a variety of assistive technologies designed to support students with visual impairments, including refreshable braille displays, magnification tools, embossers, introductory braille devices, STEM products, and accessibility software. Participants will engage in hands-on learning opportunities and discover practical strategies for integrating these tools into classroom instruction to increase accessibility, independence, and student engagement. Educators will also learn about the Center for Assistive Technology Training and the ways it supports teachers through professional development, resources, and ongoing guidance in assistive technology implementation. This session will introduce educators to valuable tools and resources that can deepen their understanding of assistive technology and its role in student success. By strengthening teachers’ knowledge and confidence, we strengthen outcomes for students.

Session Goals:

Participants will be able to identify key categories of assistive technology for students with visual impairments, including refreshable braille displays, magnification tools, embossers, STEM, and beginning braille devices for students who are visually impaired.
Participants will understand how these devices can be used in a variety of classroom settings.
Participants will learn how to work with the case conference committee to determine the device that is best for their student.

Speakers

Dr. Suzie Thomas

CATT Trainer, The Center for Assistive Technology Training (CATT) - AIDB

Dr. Susie Thomas brings over 28 years of teaching experience, spanning roles as a secondary science teacher for both general education and students who are visually impaired. She has also served as an itinerant Certified Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments (CTVI) and Certified... Read More →

Monday September 14, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

3:00pm EDT

See and Hear the Future of Braille

Monday September 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Are you curious about how traditional braille tools can shine in the digital age? Join this session to learn about APH's Paige Connect. Sighted peers, family members, and classroom teachers can quickly read what is written on a Perkins Braillewriter and even dive into online exercises that are easy and engaging.

Session Abstract:
Discover how APH's Paige Connect bridges traditional braille instruction and digital learning. This session will demonstrate how a Perkins-style braille writer can instantly display braille on phones, tablets, and computers. Learn how this enables teachers, peers, and family members to actively engage with student work. Participants will also explore the Paige Braille online platform and its interactive practice activities. Learn practical strategies for reinforcing braille literacy, increasing family involvement, fostering classroom collaboration, and creating more inclusive learning experiences with Paige Connect and Paige Braille.

Session Goals:

Demonstrate how Paige Connect connects a Perkins-style braille writer to digital devices for interactive use.
Engage with curated online exercises that make braille practice enjoyable and effective.
Identify ways Paige Connect can empower learners, teachers, and families to bridge low-tech and high-tech braille tools.

Speakers

Jim Sullivan

Director, Social Enterprise, American Printing House

Jim Sullivan is the Director of Social Enterprise at the American Printing House for the Blind (APH), where he has served for more than six years. Prior to joining APH, Jim held leadership, sales, and training positions with several leading assistive technology companies, including... Read More →

Monday September 14, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

INSAIL 2026

11:00am EDT

Emily Cantillon, PhD, TVI

11:00am EDT

Brian Goemmer, MAEd, COMS

1:30pm EDT

Dr. Suzie Thomas

3:00pm EDT

Jim Sullivan

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