Following the recent webinar by Dr. Lotfi Merabet, “Understanding the Brain and CVI,” the Michigan Department of Education is hosting a CVI Monthly Conversations webinar series (unfortunately Dr. Merabet is not part of the series). You can register for the series here.

The monthly schedule is below.

Monthly CVI Conversations

Come and converse! Join once, or every month as school personnel and parents lead discussions aimed at improving the understanding of and access to materials for students with CVI.

Cost:  Free

Zoom Link: Register in advance for this meeting:

Register here for CVI Conversations

Time: 2:45-3:30 pm. 

November 2, 2022:  CVI Conversations: Setting the Stage

In the first of 7 sessions, participants will learn about setting up the environment for optimal access to learning. In addition, basic information will be reviewed about CVI and who is impacted by this brain-based visual impairment. 

December 7, 2022: CVI Conversations: Fill Up Your Toolbox

What does a student with CVI need and where can you find it? During this session, educational materials available to school personnel will be shared that promote access to the curriculum. 

January 11, 2023: CVI Conversations: Meaningful Materials for Everyday Experiences

              Access to materials is imperative for all students. Our conversation this month will leave you with ideas for creating materials for preferred student activities, daily routines, emergency drills, and student reports for the IEP. 

February 1, 2023: CVI Conversations: Partnering with AAC

              Technology unlocks the world of communication for many of our students. Be ready this month to discuss how we can use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to enhance the lives of our students with CVI.

March 1, 2023: CVI Conversations: Making Sense out of Print 

              What do you see? How do we know if a student is interpreting or just looking? This month we dive into discussions about literacy, 2D materials, and making sense of print.

April 12, 2023: CVI Conversations: Don’t Reinvent the Wheel 

              Your time is valuable. During this CVI Conversation, the latest resources will be shared so you don’t have to spend your time creating or searching.

May 3, 2023: CVI Conversations: Tracking Gains 

              Is it spring or IEP season? Documenting progress for students with CVI is crucial. This month’s conversation will focus on what assessment tools, progress checklists, and screeners are available for school personnel and families to use.

Join Us! Discussion Leaders: 

Sara Cruchelow – Van Buren ISD

Jessicia Klenk – Washtenaw ISD

Amy Shepherd – MDE- Low Incidence Outreach (LIO) and Washtenaw ISD

Johanna Brutvan – MDE-LIO

Hosted by Michigan Department of Education-Low Incidence Outreach