Spinning like a top from one task to the next. Living with uncertainty and stress. Finding the small joys where we can.

Summer was full of anticipation for the new school year. Fall now feels simultaneously like more of the same and new challenges to face. 

For me, I often struggle to juggle continuing to triage short-term COVID-19 responses and having the focused energy needed for long term projects. Finding that balance is a daily process — rarely found, but with a strong and compassionate community, a hopeful possibility.

With the rapid shift to online learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more essential than ever to expand your teaching toolbox to make online classes fully accessible — especially for students who are deaf or have diverse educational needs.

Vocational rehabilitation (VR) agencies nationwide have faced many challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they strived to connect with isolated deaf students, overcome technology issues, and continue to support access to Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), vocational training, and employment.

A deaf student enrolled in your class, arranged their accommodations, and is ready to learn. Is your teaching plan ready to maximize their learning — as well as the diverse learning styles of a modern college classroom?

In recognition of her impact and distinction, Sarah Brown received the 2019-2020 Staff Excellence Award from The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education, in which the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes (NDC) is based.