Building Professional Relationships
The work that teachers do outside of the classroom is just as important as working with students. This work may involve volunteering for organizations that relate to your field of expertise, working with parent advisory groups, supervising special after school clubs or recreational activities for students or any other activity you have the time and inclination to pursue. Some of this extra work may be done with colleagues or other professionals. Over time, you will build up a network which will facilitate the development of many valuable relationships. Attending conferences when you can also provides a unique opportunity to learn and socialize with your peers. Vision loss should not stop you from engaging with other professionals. Gradually, you will find that you earn respect, and people will become comfortable interacting with you.
- Be prepared for some people to wonder about your visual impairment. Being able to speak frankly about your vision loss along with how you approach your work will go a long way in easing people's feelings of uncomfortableness.
- Ask for adapted materials for conferences ahead of time (e.g. materials in electronic format instead of print, large print, etc.).
- Suggest carpooling to professional development events. Perhaps a stop for lunch along the way can promote networking with your colleagues!
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