Katherine Trimm

Created a free, accessible art program for individuals with visual impairments. Our group meets to create tactile art in accessible formats. Through participation with the program, the participants:

• gain independence in creativity
• develop social interaction skills
• make new friends
• learn to independently access recreation and leisure activities in art
• practice self-determination skills by gaining confidence to express their desires and to work with teams
• learn about careers that some individuals with visual impairment have chosen in the field of art
• occasionally have the opportunity to work with guest artists.
• Collaborated with families to provide an environment for support and networking.
• We have worked with the students and family members to create an Art Car to participate in the Houston Art Car Parade, as a way to share the importance of including the visually impaired community in Art Culture.
• In September 2023, partnered with the Lighthouse of Houston to bring art workshops to all individuals with visual impairment.
• Received a grant from the IDEA Fund to curate a tactile art exhibition that is accessible for individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or differently-abled. Art Exhibit in October 2024.

• Enhanced student learning by incorporating multi-sensory techniques and adaptive strategies.
• Promoted self-advocacy skills in visually impaired students by teaching them how to effectively communicate their needs to peers and adults alike.
• Assessed students'' functional vision and recommended appropriate accommodations for optimal learning experiences.
• Implemented Braille instruction to increase literacy skills among students with visual impairments.
• Collaborated with parents, teachers, and specialists to create a supportive learning environment for each student.
• Coordinated with other special education professionals in developing comprehensive plans for meeting the individualized needs of visually impaired students within mainstream classrooms.
• Utilized assistive technology tools to enhance access to educational materials and resources for visually impaired students.
• Selected and adapted instructional materials according to the unique needs of each visually impaired student, ensuring access to the same curriculum as sighted peers.
• Created and managed IEPs to define student learning objectives and educational strategies, in addition to applying instructional knowledge and methods to support goals.