By Alan Nunn, Principal, Alabama School for the Blind

The Student Life Program at the Alabama School for the Blind (ASB) is an integral part of what we do. It allows us to work closely with our students on all aspects of the Expanded Core Curriculum. While the key element of the program is based around independent living skills, it also allows us to work with the students in the areas of recreation and leisure, social interaction skills and self-determination skills. We practice these skills at all times, but the Student Life Program allows students to put these skills into practice in real-world settings.

In the dormitory setting, students begin to learn in elementary school how to take care of their rooms and their personal items. With assistance, they learn the steps of washing their own clothes and as they get older they also learn to iron. As they grow through the program, they complete these tasks independently. Additionally, they learn to make their beds and take care of their personal space. They eventually learn to create shopping lists and actually go to the store to buy what they need. They also learn to prepare not only their own meals, but also meals for others who are in the dorm.

They learn other skills less directly. The Student Life Program keeps the students active and involved. It might be a trip to eat in a restaurant and go to a movie. They learn how to behave appropriately in these setting as well have the opportunity to interact with others who are not ASB students. So much of what is typically learned is through observation, so some guidance and instruction has to be a little more direct. Like anyone else, it is easier to learn when they enjoy doing something than just sitting in a room and being told how to act or use proper table manners.

Recreation for our students might involve spending time in the student center playing ball, swimming or participating in a scavenger hunt. They also have many opportunities to travel and do things they might not be able to otherwise. They might spend a Saturday at Six Flags or a weekend white water rafting. Not only do they learn essential skills while they are participating, but they make memories and form friendships that will last a lifetime.