The PREP curriculum is designed to empower blind youth with the alternative techniques
of blindness they will need to be successful in the career fields they choose, and
to give them the confidence and belief in themselves they need to find and keep a
job. This program is based on a positive view of blindness, that if blind people
are given proper training and opportunity, they can be successful in education, find
meaningful employment, and live full and productive lives.
The PREP Instructors work with students to assess their current skill level in a
particular area and build their skills to a level that will enable them to meet their
goals. The core classes include Braille reading and writing, independent cane travel,
Industrial Arts, adaptive technology, and home/dormitory management, that includes
cooking, cleaning, washing and labeling clothes, personal care, and daily living
skills.
PREP students live in apartments with fellow students and adult counselors. They
shop for groceries, prepare meals, and clean their apartments as part of their home
and personal Management training. They begin to learn how to live independently while
still in a supportive environment. They develop problem-solving skills and come to
realize that they will be able to take care of themselves and take responsibility
for their own futures.
PREP students will enjoy the exciting opportunity of accompanying BLIND, Incorporated
staff and adult students when we travel to the weeklong national convention of the
National Federation of the Blind, the largest annual gathering of blind teenagers
and adults in the world.
During this convention, our PREP students will join hundreds of other high school
and college students from around the country when attending the National Association
of Blind Students seminar.
This convention is packed full of fun and learning opportunities, and takes place
in various major cities once each year. In 2012, the convention will be held in Dallas, Texas.
During this summer program, PREP students will participate in activities such as
rock climbing, shopping at Mall of America, going to amusement parks, canoeing, visiting
college campuses, and a variety of other activities.
Participating in these activities helps to build their self-confidence, social skills,
and problem-solving skills.
Classes for learning the alternative techniques of blindness
The PREP classes are also enhanced with curriculum particular to post-secondary success
such as note taking, using readers, ordering books in alternative formats, the role
of offices for students with disabilities, time-management, social interaction with
fellow students, extensive career exploration, and dealing with the misconceptions
professors and employers may have about blindness. PREP students also participate
in seminars where they discuss issues related to blindness. This helps them to develop
a positive attitude toward blindness and strategies for dealing with issues and situations
they will encounter.
Preparation for Independent Living
Out of State Travel Experience and other fun-filled activities
Note: Summer training opportunities for college students that were formerly part of the Life 101 Program are available as part of our comprehensive program. Contact us for more information.
Charlene Guggisberg
612-872-0100 Ext. 251
Or Toll Free: 800-597-9558
E-mail: cguggisberg@blindinc.org
Follow this link to view and fill out an HTML version of the PREP application