learning statement - state of web viewconsumers are expected to dress modestly and wear clothing...

The Bureau of Services for Blind PersonsTraining Center (BSBPTC)

1541 Oakland DriveKalamazoo, MI 49008

269 337 3848 or 269 337 3851www.michigan.gov/bsbp

http://www.michigan.gov/bsbp

Learning Statement

This handbook provides information for those who are preparing for and participating in the BSBPTC program. People from all parts of the state come to the BSBPTC to work on skills of blindness. It is a place where confidence is built and potential is realized. Our focus is to create an environment that is respectful to all and encourages consumers to openly share their knowledge and experience. Many times, consumers learn as much from one another as they do from the training they receive. Each individual’s success is dependent upon his or her willingness and ability to engage in the learning process. It requires a capacity to be open to change, to be tolerant of others and to accept personal responsibility. It is our hope that upon completion of your program, you will have the confidence and skills to live your life more independently and to achieve your goals.

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ContentsLearning Statement.........................................................................2Introduction:....................................................................................4Where It All Begins:.........................................................................5How to be Referred:.........................................................................5What to Bring:..................................................................................5Dress Code:.....................................................................................6Training Center Amenities:..............................................................7What to expect when you arrive:.....................................................8Dorm rooms.....................................................................................8Attendance/Participation:................................................................9Class Hours:.....................................................................................9Food Service:.................................................................................10Cane Usage:..................................................................................11Guide Dogs and Service Animals:..................................................11Family Services:.............................................................................11Apartment Experience...................................................................11Training Center Counselors:..........................................................12Holidays:........................................................................................12Conflict Resolution and Rights.......................................................13Appendix........................................................................................14Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and weapons...........................16Smoking.........................................................................................16Incense burners, candles and steamers........................................16Documents to Sign........................................................................21Directions:.....................................................................................22

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Training Center Student HandbookIntroduction : The Bureau of Services for Blind Persons Training Center (BSBPTC) is a residential facility which has been in operation since 1970; it provides comprehensive instruction to blind and visually impaired consumers of the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP). Personal adjustment training (skills of blindness) and vocational exploration and planning are emphasized so that consumers can become independent at home and in the community. Additionally, consumers may be referred to the training center for assessments and other programs. BSBPTC is open year round and has accommodations for up to twenty-nine students in twenty-seven private rooms and two training apartments. Accessible rooms are available for those with special needs. Length of stay varies from a few weeks to several months depending upon individual needs and goals. There are five scheduled student breaks that allow students to return home and take care of personal and family commitments. Included in those five breaks are Thanksgiving week and two weeks during the holiday break at the end of December. While in programming, each consumer’s skill level will be assessed and instruction will be provided in adaptive low vision and non-visual techniques from professionally trained staff in various skill areas (see Class Descriptions). The training center provides opportunities for both individualized and group instruction. Classes are held Monday through Friday. Consumers are encouraged to attend recreational and

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other activities that are frequently offered during evenings and on weekends. Consumers who choose not to stay for the weekend are expected to make their own travel arrangements. Guests are encouraged to visit when classes are not in session and are requested to leave no later than 10:00 p.m. Visitors are required to sign in upon entering the building and sign out when leaving the premises. The sign in/out sheet may be found at the front desk during business hours and in Support Services at all other times.Where It All Begins : The counselor or teacher from one of BSBP’s eight field offices is responsible for facilitating the referral process to the training center. If a consumer is considering training at BSBPTC, he/she may want to visit the facility prior to making a final decision. The consumer, counselor or teacher can call the training center at 269 337 3771 or 269 337 3848 to speak with a staff person and to set up a tour of the building. Family members or other significant persons are welcome and encouraged to accompany a prospective student. How to be Referred: To begin the referral process the field staff counselor or teacher will put together a packet containing recent eye and medical reports and additional information which will be discussed with the consumer. Once the referral packet is complete, training center staff will contact the consumer and the field counselor to set up an entrance date to BSBPTC. This will be followed up with correspondence confirming the date of arrival and other important information. Each consumer will receive a copy of this handbook in the medium of his/her choice.

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What to Bring : As you are packing your belongings, please note:As students arrive at the Training Center, when they return from weekend leave and when they bring newly purchased items into the Training Center, all belongings with the exception of items that would be destroyed in the heat tent, will be placed in the heat tent for a minimum of four hours. Support Services Staff will inspect items that are not placed in the heat tent.

Please bring clothing that is appropriate for the season. Students will be traveling in the community and should bring comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for all types of weather. A casual to business casual dress code will be observed. D ress C ode: Casual to business casual dress code includes: Slacks (khakis, cargo pants or good jeans with no holes) Cargo or Bermuda shorts, caprisPlain t-shirts, polo shirts, turtlenecks, casual button-down shirts and blouses, sweatersCasual shoes such as loafers, athletic shoes, sandals Dresses, skirts Training center administration and counselors reserve the right to counsel with consumers as to appropriate clothing choices. Consumers are expected to dress modestly and

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wear clothing that is free of slogans and/or art that may be determined to be offensive or inappropriate.Following is a list of other items to bring:Picture I.D.Medical insurance cardsPrescription and over the counter medications A written copy of special dietary instructionsToiletries Laundry supplies Alarm clockSpending money for recreation, snacks, etc.Accessible technology and adaptive equipment such as computers, braille notetakers, Pen Friend, digital recorders, etc.

Low vision aids such as prescription glasses, sunglasses, monoculars, magnifiers, etc.

Hearing aids Braille and Talking Book Library (BTBL) book player (if

one has been issued to you) Hangers Pillow (although pillows are provided, many students

prefer to sleep on their own.)

The BSBPTC is not responsible for loss, theft or damage of any personal items. Items left behind for more than 30 days after conclusion will be discarded.

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Training Center Amenities : Coin-operated washers and dryers Cleaning supplies are located in laundry rooms Televisions, DVD players, accessible computers and

CCTVs (video magnifiers) in lounge areas Refrigerator and microwave in lounge area Fitness room (NOTE: The fitness room may be used

once the consumer has been familiarized with the equipment unless otherwise ordered by his/her doctor.)

Library containing materials in various reading formats Vending machines with soft drinks, candy and snacks Change machine that accepts $1 and $5 bills Outdoor smoking area (Smoking is not allowed in the

building or in state-owned vehicles.) Incoming and outgoing mail services are available at

the front desk. There is no mail delivery on weekends.

Available to borrow:

Alarm clock BTBL book player Iron and ironing board

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What to expect when you arrive : When you arrive at the center, you will be greeted by one of our Support Services staff members who will show you to your room and provide an orientation to the building. You will receive a key to your room, as well as a card key which will allow you to gain entrance to the building during your stay. (There is a $25 fee for cards that are lost, damaged or stolen.) At this time, you and a member of the staff will meet to review and confirm pertinent information. You will be asked to sign forms related to your participation in the program (see list in appendix). Copies of your schedule and this handbook will also be available. (Please note if you are not your own legal guardian, your parent or guardian must complete/sign any documentation requiring a signature prior to the beginning of your program.) Dorm rooms are all single occupancy. They include a private bath, a twin bed, a small wardrobe, a night stand, a high intensity lamp and a desk. The training center provides a cleaning caddy stocked with various supplies, a limited number of clothes hangers and two sets of linen and towels. You are welcome to bring your own bedding and/or towels if you wish.Every student is provided with a class schedule in the medium of his or her choice. Options available include regular print, large print, braille and electronic. Attendance/Participation: Good attendance, punctuality and timely completion of assignments are essential for ensuring steady progress and success in your training program. Any ongoing concerns

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regarding your full participation will be addressed by the BSBPTC staff and your counselor/teacher. Each weekday begins with announcements which are made just prior to 8:00 a.m. Information shared includes meetings, menu, students and staff who are off for the day and class coverage. Class Hours: Classes are held from 8:00 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. on Monday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:55 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and from 8:00 a.m. until 11:25 a.m. on Friday. Meetings and other activities may be scheduled on Friday afternoon. Staff is available weekday evenings and on weekends for outings and recreational activities. 1st hour 8:00 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.2nd hour 8:50 a.m. - 9:35 a.m.Morning break 9:35 a.m. to 9:50 a.m.3rd hour 9:50 a.m. - 10:35 a.m.4th hour 10:40 a.m. – 11:25 a.m.Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.5th hour 12:30 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.6th hour 1:20 p.m. – 2:05 p.m.Afternoon break 2:05 p.m. to 2:20 p.m.7th hour 2:20 p.m. – 3:05 p.m.8th hour 3:10 p.m. – 3:55 p.m.9th hour 4:00 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.

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For all incoming students, a group orientation will be provided by training center counselors on the first day of class. This handbook will be reviewed and there will be a time for questions and answers. Food Service : Our kitchen staff provides a variety of food choices and will make every effort to accommodate medically necessary dietary needs. Monday through Friday, meals are served at 7:00 a.m. – 7:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. On Saturdays, continental breakfast is available between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. and sack lunches are available from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Consumers are on their own for Saturday night dinner. Options available include dining out, ordering in or enjoying items made during cooking class. Please meet with your counselor if resources are a concern.On Sundays, continental breakfast is available between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Lunch is provided from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.When consumers are present for holidays, breakfast is served from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.Cane Usage: Your Orientation and Mobility Instructor will assist you in determining the type of mobility aid (i.e. long cane, etc.) that will best meet your travel needs and incorporate this into your

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training. You will be expected to utilize your mobility aid throughout the course of your training at the center.Guide Dogs and Service Animals: Consumers who use guide dogs or service animals will work with the O&M Instructor to determine how to incorporate use of the animal into travel instruction. Service animals and guide dogs are the responsibility of the consumer. Service animal documentation is required.Family Services : Family members and other significant persons are welcome and encouraged to attend a family service day while the consumer is in training. This typically occurs towards the end of a consumer’s program and prior arrangements should be made with the training center counselor. Participants are invited to attend classes, experience an introduction to skills of blindness training and meet with staff members as needed. Lunch will be provided in the cafeteria. (Any additional meals and/or lodging are the responsibility of participants.)Apartment Experience The apartment training experience provides a unique opportunity for eligible consumers to integrate the many skills they have been focusing on as part of the Personal Adjustment Program, and to facilitate a successful transition to living independently in the community. While living in the apartment, consumers work on meal planning and preparation, shopping, budgeting, time management, cleaning and other homemaking skills.

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Training Center Counsel ors: Each consumer will meet regularly with his or her assigned training center counselor to discuss scheduling, address questions or concerns and to assist the consumer in progressing toward his or her goals.Holidays : Classes are not scheduled on most national holidays. If the center remains open, no regularly scheduled classes will be held; however, recreational activities may be offered. Students will be informed in advance when the center closes for a holiday, so that appropriate travel arrangements can be made.

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C onflict Resolution and Rights Most conflicts arise out of miscommunication. The following steps are to assist in the resolution of the conflict:

1. Administrative Review - A meeting between you and your counselor/teacher, his/her supervisor and an agency administrator for the purpose of resolving the conflict.

2. Fair Hearing - A hearing before an Administrative Law Judge designed to settle conflicts. The Administrative Law Judge will render a ruling regarding your issues. If you are not satisfied with the decision of the Administrative Law Judge you may appeal this decision to the Director of the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (DLARA).

3. At no time will the Administrative Review be used to delay the scheduling of a Fair Hearing, if you choose.

To request an Administrative Review contact the supervisor in the region at 1-800-292-4200. To arrange for a Fair Hearing you may contact the Michigan Bureau of Services for Blind Persons Hearing Coordinator at 1-800-292-4200 or by making the request by phone or in writing to your Counselor/Teacher or the Hearing Coordinator. There is no cost to you for these activities. However, the agency will not pay the costs, if any, for an advocate or attorney.

You have the right to be represented by an advocate of your choosing at any time during the rehabilitation process or the conflict resolution activities mentioned above. You also have the right to obtain assistance through the Client Assistance Program (CAP) at any time. CAP may be reached at 1-800-288-5923.

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Appendix Program Requirements

BUREAU OF SERVICES FOR BLIND PERSONS Training Center (BSBPTC) Program Requirements

1. BSBPTC shall maintain a learning environment that is respectful and free from harassment. Harassment is defined as “unwelcome advances, requests for favors and other verbal or physical conduct or communication under any of the following conditions:

(a) Submission to the conduct or communication is made a term or condition, either explicitly or implicitly, to obtaining training.

(b) Submission to or rejection of the conduct or communication by a person is used as a factor in decisions affecting the person’s training.

(c) The conduct or communication has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with a person’s training or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment.” *

*Amended from Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) Discriminatory Harassment Policy and Work Rule. 2. For any consumer over 18 who has a legal guardian,

documentation must be provided, outlining the terms and conditions of the guardianship and designating the name and contact information of the guardian. Written instructions regarding permissions and/or restrictions for the consumer are required from the guardian.

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3. For any minor, contact information of custodial parent or guardian must be provided, along with written instructions regarding permissions and/or restrictions for the minor.

4. Any consumer who has a legal guardian shall remain on training center grounds unless written permission has been submitted by his or her guardian, or he or she is accompanied by staff.

5. Each participant is expected to be present, on time and ready to begin all activities as scheduled.

6. Each consumer is expected to utilize acquired skills.

7. The training center will observe quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. each weekday, Sunday through Thursday and 11:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. each weekend, Friday and Saturday.

8. Fellow consumers and visitors, with the exception of family, legal guardians and training center staff, are not permitted in dorm rooms.

9. Consumers who are participating in the apartment training experience may have visitors as long as both the consumer and the visitor are their own guardian. An exception will be made for family visitors who are not their own guardian. Visitors must comply with all other program requirements.

10.Visitors are not permitted on the premises between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. or as requested by center staff. All visitors are required to sign in and out.

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Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and weapons 11.Alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, and weapons shall not

be permitted in the center building or on the center grounds at any time. If it is determined that there is reasonable suspicion of the use of an illegal substance, the consumer must submit to drug testing. In the event a consumer tests positive for illegal substances or refuses to be tested, said consumer shall be terminated from the program. Any consumer who engages in an unlawful activity under any circumstances is subject to immediate dismissal from the program.

12.The use of medical marijuana in any form shall not be permitted on state/training center property at any time.

Smoking 13.Smoking is prohibited in the training center and in training

center vehicles. Smoking on the grounds is only permitted in the outdoor designated areas. All paraphernalia related to smoking shall be maintained and disposed of by the smoker.

14.Program participants shall not operate motor vehicles.

15.Staff shall enter dorm rooms for instructional purposes, maintenance purposes, to check for cleanliness and at any time there are concerns regarding a consumer’s health or safety.

16.No cooking or cooking devices are permitted in dorm rooms (Training apartments are excluded). Food items are allowed in dorm rooms only if kept in closed, re-sealable containers.

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Incense burners, candles and steamers 17.Incense burners, candles and steamers are prohibited in

dorm rooms and apartments.

18.If a consumer’s training program is interrupted for medical reasons (medical interruption), clearance from a qualified medical professional which outlines any restrictions must be submitted in order for training to resume.

19.When a service animal is present, care of the animal shall be the responsibility of the consumer.

20.All safety procedures shall be followed at all times.

Class Descriptions Adaptive Kitchen Skills (AKS)

Students in this class learn adaptive skills to become more independent in the kitchen. Training ranges from simple food preparation to the planning and cooking of complete meals for oneself and others.

Adaptive Technology and Computers (ATAC)Designed to help students attain their goal of pursuing employment and/or academic interests, this course provides instruction in the use of Microsoft Office with assistive technology, OCRs and other products for the blind. Students explore word processing, spreadsheets, e-mail, Internet access and presentation development.

Braille of 25

In this class, students learn to read and write braille, a tactual system of communications for the blind. Students may progress from learning the alphabet for personal communications, to mastering contracted braille, a system used for reading books and other written materials.

Career Planning (CP)Career planning involves increasing self-awareness, exploring vocational interests and options, and acquiring the knowledge, skills and experience to enable individuals to successfully pursue employment goals. Consumers will be given opportunities to work on such skills as preparing a resumé, job searching strategies and interviewing techniques. Informational interviewing, job shadowing and supervised work experiences are often made available.

Chat with the DirectorsStudents and directors gather weekly for an informal discussion. This is an opportunity to ask questions, share information and discuss issues and concerns brought forth by consumers and directors. This is an open forum and all students are required to attend.

CraftsStudents in this class learn new skills and how to continue life-long interests such as sewing, knitting and working with materials such as leather, clay and tiles. They may also participate in other leisure activities.

Diabetes/Health Education

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The goal of this class is to educate consumers about diabetes and other medical conditions. Alternative techniques for handling one’s health care needs are covered, including administering insulin, glucose monitoring and independent management of prescription medications.

FitnessThe fitness program provides an opportunity for consumers to participate in a wide range of activities that promote a healthy lifestyle, increase flexibility and build endurance. Activities may include aerobic, range of motion and/or strength training exercises, as well as recreational activities, such as walking, tandem bicycling, swimming, bowling, etc.

IOS Core Education (ICE)Designed to help students attain their goal of pursuing employment and/or academic interests, this course provides instruction in the introductory use of IOS devices with Voiceover and Siri technologies. Students explore utilizing adaptive technologies while making phone calls, checking email, accessing the internet and navigating the app store.

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Industrial Arts / Home Mechanics (IA)The Industrial Arts program presents two hands-on experiences for individuals. The first is home maintenance where students learn about electrical and plumbing procedures and the second is woodworking, where students are familiarized with the processes of planning and building a variety of unique projects. The use of adaptive techniques and strategies enable students to safely use tools while relying on tactual and auditory information for measurement and fabrication.

Introduction to Basic Computer Skills (IBCS)The purpose of the IBCS class is to teach students to become proficient in the use of keyboarding skills such as using correct fingering and increasing typing speed. The students will also learn general skills for operating the computer such as opening and closing applications, saving files and using USB drives. Basic Windows, JAWS and Zoom Text skills are included in the curriculum.

Life SkillsLife Skills focuses on various aspects of independent living and alternative communication methods. Students learn to use equipment such as digital recorders, book players and labeling devices. Additionally, many services and resources of interest to blind consumers are covered.

Low VisionStudents possessing significant residual vision are provided with exposure to and training with low vision devices.

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Appropriate use of magnification, lighting, glare control and color contrast techniques are also covered in this class.

Nutrition EducationIn this class, students learn how modifying one’s diet may help prevent chronic stress and health conditions (such as diabetes and heart disease) and improve the well-being of those living with these conditions.

Occupational Therapy (OT)In Occupational Therapy, students learn adaptations to increase independence and confidence. One’s physical capacities, interests, academic and work skills are also addressed.

Orientation and Mobility (Travel)The Orientation and Mobility Class builds self-confidence and Independence by teaching individuals to maintain safety and orientation during real world travel practice and experiences.

Personal Management (PM)In Personal Management students work on various skills of daily living such as personal hygiene, laundry, cleaning, organization techniques and money and time skills.

Documents to SignAcceptable Computer/Internet Use AgreementEmergency Medical Authorization

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Photo ReleasePolicy, Rules and Guidelines AgreementRelease of Information

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Directions :

From US-131, travel to exit 36A (Stadium Drive east). Proceed on Stadium Drive approximately 2.2 miles to the traffic light at the intersection of Stadium Drive and Howard Street. Turn right (east) at the traffic light onto Howard Street and proceed up the hill. Turn left (north) at the top of the hill onto Oakland Drive. The center is on the right (east) side of Oakland Drive, just past the fire station. From I-94, take Exit 75 (Oakland Drive). Go north on Oakland Drive for about 2.7 miles. The center is located just past the intersection at Howard Street, on the right (east) side of Oakland Drive.Please take the second drive and park in the lot on the north side of the building. You can gain entrance to the building by pressing the buzzer at the north door; this will alert the staff that you have arrived.For Specific Needs or Questions:Should you have special circumstances that we need to be aware of or if you have any questions, please contact us at (269) 337-3848, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.TTY services are available through the Michigan Relay Center by dialing 1-888-864-1212. Then indicate you wish to contact the BSBP Training Center at (269) 337-3848.

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