INSAIL 2026: Full Schedule

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

8:30am EDT

Collaboration in Action: Public School Stories of Access for Students with CVI

Tuesday September 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Effective CVI support requires more than individual expertise, it demands radical collaboration. This session presents real-world success stories from public school settings, illustrating how families, educators, and specialists bridge systemic gaps. Participants will gain practical service-delivery models and implementation checklists to transform "isolated accommodations" into a cohesive, school-wide culture of access.

Session Abstract:
In the complex ecosystem of public education, supporting a student with Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) can often feel like an uphill battle for a single educator or parent. However, when the "silo" approach is replaced by a collaborative service-delivery model, the results are transformative. This session moves beyond theory to showcase Collaboration in Action, sharing authentic stories of public school teams that turned "impossible" barriers into "possible" breakthroughs.

We will explore lived examples where General Education teachers, TVIs, O&Ms, and families aligned their vision to create sustainable access. These stories highlight the "creative persistence" required to navigate rigid school structures and high-stakes environments. We don't just talk about what worked; we break down how it worked—examining the communication loops, shared data collection, and mutual advocacy that sparked change.

Key highlights of this session include:

The "Shared Vision" Framework: Moving from conflicting goals to a unified CVI-focused IEP.

Case Studies in Creativity: Real-world examples of low-budget, high-impact adaptations that emerged from team brainstorming.

Sustainable Systems: How to build an "Access Team" that survives staff turnover and grade-level transitions.

Attendees will leave with a "Collaboration Toolkit," including simple implementation checklists and communication templates designed to streamline the consultation process. This session is a reminder that while the brain processes visual information, it is the human connection and collective effort that truly opens the door to learning for students with CVI.

Session Goals:

Attendees will analyze three successful service-delivery models that integrate CVI accommodations into the general education curriculum through interdisciplinary teamwork.
Attendees will evaluate communication strategies that bridge the gap between home and school, ensuring a consistent visual environment across all settings.
Attendees will construct data-driven advocacy statements for IEP meetings or district reviews that link specific visual barriers to the need for modified assessment formats.

Speakers

Emily Cantillon, PhD, TVI

Perkins School for the Blind

Tuesday September 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

8:30am EDT

The Screen Reader Lesson You Can Teach Tomorrow: JAWS, NVDA & ChromeVox Basics

Tuesday September 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Tired of screen reader sessions that drift without purpose? Many vision professionals feel inadequacy teaching JAWS, NVDA, and ChromeVox instruction, memorizing commands they can't apply, and struggling to document progress. This hands-on workshop provides immediate relief with a structured lesson plan template and Eye.t Learning Portal access. You'll leave with a complete lesson ready to teach, including specific objectives, success criteria, and exact portal locations for instructional content.

Session Abstract:
Tired of screen reader sessions that drift without clear purpose, leaving both you and your student unsure of what was accomplished? You're not alone. Many vision professionals feel inadequacy around screen reader instruction, struggling to document progress, and memorizing commands they can't actually apply to real websites. This hands-on workshop eliminates the guesswork by providing you with a structured lesson plan template and immediate access to the Eye.t Learning Portal's comprehensive screen reader curriculum for JAWS, NVDA, and ChromeVox.

You'll walk away from this session with a complete lesson plan that includes specific objectives, success criteria, and exact portal locations for instructional content, meaning your next session with students has clear purpose and measurable outcomes. No more spending hours preparing lessons that still feel inadequate. The portal does the heavy lifting with pre-made instructional videos, while the lesson plan template ensures every session is purposeful and documented.

This isn't about learning everything at once or becoming a "tech expert." It's about getting one quality lesson ready to teach immediately, with a replicable system that transforms screen reader instruction from anxiety-inducing to structured and effective for every future session.

Session Goals:

Complete one structured lesson plan that includes a specific screen reader skill objective, success criteria statement, and the exact portal location where the instructional content can be accessed.
Articulate a realistic timeline estimate for developing student confidence with screen reader navigation based on the workshop discussion, replacing previous misconceptions about instruction duration.
Document in their lesson plan template the specific student need being addressed, the selected skill from the portal, and at least one measurable success criterion that defines when the skill has been mastered.

Speakers

Cody Laplante

Owner / CEO, Eye.t Vision

Cody Laplante is a certified Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments living in Baltimore, Maryland. Formerly working at the Maryland School for the Blind, Cody worked as an Assistive Technology Specialist, teaching students how to use screen readers, switch access, and worked... Read More →

Tuesday September 15, 2026 8:30am - 9:30am EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

9:45am EDT

Accessible Math in Action: Digital Math Demonstrations

Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Mathematics remains one of the most challenging areas for digital accessibility, yet recent innovations are transforming how students with visual impairments can learn, explore, and produce math content.
This session explores how assistive technology improves math access for students who are blind or have low vision. Learn how tools like JAWS, Desmos, MathPix, Monarch, and MathType support efficient digital and tactile math, with practical strategies to promote independence and engagement.

Session Abstract:
Mathematics remains one of the most persistent challenges in digital accessibility, yet recent innovations are transforming how students who are blind or have low vision engage with math content. This session explores how a combination of screen readers, tactile displays, and math creation tools can be used to support meaningful, independent access to mathematics across K–12 settings.
Participants will experience practical demonstrations of tools such as JAWS Math Editor, Desmos, and Monarch, highlighting how students can independently compose, interpret, and interact with mathematical expressions, equations, and graphs. The session will also examine how MathPix and MathType can be leveraged to efficiently convert and create accessible math materials suitable for both digital use and tactile production, including embossed formats.
Emphasis will be placed on how these tools function together within a cohesive workflow, allowing educators to design and deliver instruction that is both accessible and rigorous. Real-world classroom applications will be shared to illustrate how accessible math tools can be integrated into daily instruction, assessments, and student assignments.
By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of how to implement these technologies to support student independence, increase engagement, and expand access to higher-level mathematical thinking. This session is designed for educators, assistive technology specialists, and related service providers seeking practical strategies to improve math accessibility for students with visual impairments.

Session Goals:

Participants will identify at least three assistive technology tools (e.g., JAWS Math Editor, Desmos, Monarch) and describe one specific function of each for supporting accessible math.
Participants will demonstrate the ability to complete one math-related task (e.g., creating, interpreting, or navigating an expression or graph) using at least one featured tool.
Participants will develop one classroom-ready strategy or activity that integrates at least two tools to support accessible math instruction for students with visual impairments.

Speakers

Nick Leon, MA, COMS, BLV

Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired

Nick Leon is a Blind and Low Vision Teacher and Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist who serves as the Assistant Director of the Expanded Core Curriculum at the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

Tuesday September 15, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision, Blind/Low Vision

1:00pm EDT

Aligning AAC Settings with CVI Evaluation Data

Tuesday September 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
This session explores how a vision evaluation by a teacher of the visually impaired informs AAC access for students with Cortical Visual Impairment. Presenters will examine common AAC applications through a CVI-informed lens, highlighting visual modifications that support communication, emphasizing individualized approaches, implementation, and ongoing assessment to honor each learner's visual and communicative needs.

Session Abstract:
This presentation examines Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and its impact on students’ access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems. CVI is the leading cause of pediatric visual impairment in the United States and results from damage to visual pathways or processing centers in the brain. Students often have healthy ocular structures; however, the brain has difficulty interpreting visual input. CVI affects visual attention, recognition, complexity tolerance, and visual-motor integration—skills foundational to efficient AAC use.

We will analyze how CVI characteristics interfere with AAC access, including reduced visual field use, difficulty with cluttered displays, impaired symbol recognition, and inconsistent visual engagement. Without intentional design adjustments, these barriers can limit communication growth and system consistency.

Participants will explore widely used AAC applications, including TouchChat, LAMP Words for Life, TD Snap, GoVisual, GoTalk NOW, Avaz, Proloquo2Go, and Grid for iPad. For each, we will identify adjustable features that support learners across CVI phases, including simplified layouts, increased symbol size and spacing, high-contrast color options, reduced visual complexity, and layered auditory feedback.

Effective CVI-informed AAC implementation requires assessment of each student’s visual profile followed by systematic modification and ongoing data review. When AAC systems are aligned with neurological visual needs, communication access expands, independence increases, and expressive language becomes more consistent. Attendees will leave with practical evaluation tools and immediately applicable strategies to ensure AAC functions as a bridge to connection—not a barrier.

Session Goals:

Attendees will be able to analyze three defining characteristics of CVI that interfere with visual access to high-tech AAC systems.
Attendees will be able to compare visual accessibility features across three or more AAC applications, identifying supports aligned to CVI-specific needs.
Attendees will be able to develop two or more interdisciplinary strategies to integrate CVI-informed adaptations into AAC selection and implementation.

Speakers

Mary Giunta, MA, CCC-SLP

AAC Consultant, AAC Tech Solutions, LLC

Mary Giunta brings over three decades of experience in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), during which she served diverse populations across multiple settings, including hospitals, schools, adult day programs, outpatient clinics, and early intervention programs. Since... Read More →

Emily Cantillon, PhD, TVI

Perkins School for the Blind

Tuesday September 15, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

2:15pm EDT

Teaching Low Vision Computer Accessibility Tools to Resistant Learners

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT

502 East Event Centre

Session Description:
Your student needs magnification but refuses to use it. You're exhausted from fighting the same battle every session, watching their future narrow as deadlines approach.
This workshop transforms adversarial relationships into collaborative partnerships. Learn why resistance signals unmet psychological needs, then master the Three Indicators framework, a student-driven assessment that preserves their authority while addressing real access barriers.

Session Abstract:
You know your student needs magnification. They refuse to use it. The clock is ticking toward graduation, and you're watching their future narrow while feeling powerless to stop it.
This isn't about their defiance. It's about unmet psychological needs. When students resist accommodations, they're protecting their competence, relatedness, or autonomy. This workshop breaks the stalemate by transforming you from frustrated authority into trusted collaborative partner.
You'll learn Self-Determination Theory to diagnose what's really driving resistance, then master the Three Indicators framework, a structured assessment process that replaces "I know what you need" with student-driven evaluation. Students rate themselves on Task Completion and Natural Reading Posture, then collaborate with you to adjust settings. This preserves their decision-making authority while addressing genuine access barriers.

Choose one accessibility feature pathway (magnifier, high contrast, display scaling, text-to-speech, or screen settings) for hands-on exploration. Leave with a concrete action plan including the exact language to introduce this framework, anticipated student objections and responses, and specific questions for collaborative problem-solving.

Stop exhausting yourself trying to convince resistant students. Start building the trust-based relationship that finally gets them to honestly engage with what works.

Session Goals:

Apply Self-Determination Theory to identify the specific psychological need (competence, relatedness, or autonomy) driving resistance in one current student case.
Plan a complete Three Indicators assessment cycle for a student, including task selection, and collaborative adjustment planning.
Demonstrate technical proficiency with one Windows, Chromebook or Mac accessibility feature sufficient to guide student exploration.

Speakers

Cody Laplante

Owner / CEO, Eye.t Vision

Tuesday September 15, 2026 2:15pm - 3:15pm EDT
502 East Event Centre 502 E Carmel Dr, Carmel, IN 46032, USA

Blind/Low Vision

11:00am EDT

11:00am EDT

1:30pm EDT

3:00pm EDT

8:30am EDT

8:30am EDT

9:45am EDT

1:00pm EDT

2:15pm EDT

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