In this edition of Parenting Impossible, we learn more about the historic school that played a huge role in host Annette Hine’s life. Perkins School For The Blind was established 190 years ago and was the first school created for the blind in the United States. Perkins’ best-known student, Helen Keller, flourished while studying at Perkins and is highly regarded around the world for her efforts to assure equal benefits and rights for all people, particularly those with disabilities.
During this podcast, Annette speaks with Perkins Education Director Pat McCall and recalls fond memories of her daughter Elizabeth’s time spent at the centuries-old school. Elizabeth passed away from Mitochondrial disease in November 2013 at the age of 17. “Perkins was Elizabeth’s favorite place in the world, nevermind Disney World, she always wanted to be at Perkins,” says Annette.
Later in the show, Annette and Pat talk about how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way students are learning and the most difficult obstacle the staff had to overcome. “One thing I thought was so amazing was showing the parents and caregivers how to teach at home,” says Pat.
Pat and Annette also touch on how the pandemic will forever change the way students learn in the future. “It’s taught us how to better incorporate technology into programs, and we’re better educators because of this,” says Pat.
In honor of Elizabeth’s birthday on May 31st, Annette is matching every donation made to Perkins School For The blind (up to $5,000) through June 14th, 2020.
To learn more and contribute to this fundraiser, click here.