Two Teachers - One Goal

Margie Cernitz (left) is the crucial element to Doug’s inclusion. As a professional teacher, she gives him Braille instruction and converts all of his printed lessons into Braille. Margie also helps other blind children in the Montgomery County (MD) school district, but budget cuts may force her to spend less time with Doug and the others.

Gina Anderson (right), an Orientation and Mobility (O&M) instructor, watches Doug’s progress during a mobility exercise with his cane. Mastery of O&M skills, such as the proper cane travel techniques, are vital for Doug’s future independence.

Doug will have this support all through school. It is his right, protected by law, as it is for more than 43,000 blind and visually impaired children in the United States. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), public school districts must provide professional support staff and learning materials for disabled students.