What Happens After Graduation

From Co-pilot to Pilot, What Happens After Graduation?

Friday, November 14, 2025 9:30am - 3:00pm Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind and Vision Impaired (VRCBVI) 401 Azalea Ave, Richmond, VA 23227 On Friday, November 14, 2025, VRCBVI will host a one-day event for students and their parents/guardians, designed to celebrate and support the exciting transition from high school to what comes next. It is designed to support and inspire students as they move from being co-pilots—learning, growing, and navigating with guidance—to becoming confident pilots, ready to take control and soar after high school. Buckle up—it’s your time to fly! WHO HAS PERMISSION TO BOARD? Students ages 14–22 and parents/guardians Teachers of the Blind or Vision Impaired(TVI) Teachers of Blind Students(TBS) DBVI Education Coordinators PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST (Concurrent Sessions) Cockpit Command: Mastering Screen Reader Navigation Strap in and learn to fly with JAWS and NVDA. Then switch altitudes and decode the skies with Narrator. This hands-on flight simulation will help you become a screen reader shapeshifter—ready to navigate any screen reader with confidence. Flight Systems: Operating System Survival Skills Forget memorizing every button in the cockpit—this workshop teaches you how to fly by instinct. Learn the core concepts behind any operating system and troubleshoot like a seasoned pilot. Whether it’s Windows, Mac, or beyond, you’ll be cleared for takeoff on any tech runway. Touch-Typing Test Flight: Speed, Skill, and Sky-High Confidence Typing isn’t rocket science—it’s your runway to independence. Sure, phones work in a pinch, but real altitude comes from mastering a full keyboard. Test your speed and learn the logic of touch-typing and take off with confidence. Life Skills in Action: From Chopping Veggies to Crushing Deadlines Organization is your flight plan—whether you're cooking dinner or managing your schedule, these skills keep you on course. Budgeting for Takeoff: Why Managing Money Matters (Even Now!) Even if your parents give you money, you’re the one in charge of managing it. Learn what to budget for and how to make smart financial choices—your first step toward financial independence after high school. Braille + Tech = Power Tools for Independent Pilots Discover how braille displays and braille screen input work together to give you full control of your digital world—whether you're texting, studying, or navigating your next big adventure. Braille in STEM: Unlocking the Universe One Dot at a Time Think STEM is out of reach? Think again. Braille opens doors to science, math, and tech—giving you the freedom to explore any subject you’re passionate about. Braille on the Mic: Delivering Powerful Presentations with Confidence See how braille can be your secret weapon for public speaking—whether you're presenting in a college lab, a boardroom, or on stage. Watch a live demo that shows how to command attention and communicate with clarity. Fitness on Your Terms Graduation means taking the lead—starting with your health. Learn how to use fitness equipment safely and confidently, no experience needed. Build strength, boost energy, and take control of your wellness journey. Recreation That Fits You Life after graduation is about doing what you love. Discover accessible sports, hobbies, and community programs that match your interests. Whether you're into movement, music, or meeting new people—this is your launchpad to fun and freedom. Fuel for Life You’re in the pilot seat now—so what’s fueling your flight? Learn how to build balanced meals, spot hidden sugars, and make smart food choices wherever you are. Real food, real talk, real independence. Street Smarts Live: Real-Time Street Crossing Demo Watch mobility experts in action and learn about the key concepts to cross streets with confidence—because every great pilot needs to know how to navigate the runway. This will include going off campus to observe a street crossing. Limited to 8 participants. There are 2 sessions, the first is from 10:00 - 12:00 and one from and 1:00 - 3:00. Can only sign up for one session. Travel Tools That Empower: Low Vision & Nonvisual Navigation Explore the powerful tools that help you chart your own course—whether you rely on vision, touch, or tech, you’ve got options. Hands-On Navigation: Try the Tools That Guide You Get hands-on with GPS apps, tactile maps, and more—because every pilot needs a reliable co-pilot (even if it’s an app!). Building Your Flight Crew: Connect with Mentors & Peers Meet people who’ve already taken off—mentors and peers who can share their flight paths and help you chart yours. Schedule for the day: 9:30 AM - Flight check-in 9:45 AM - Welcome - Melody Roane, VRCBVI Pilot 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM - Concurrent Sessions 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM - Lunch 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM - Concurrent Sessions 3:00 PM: Door Prizes - Must be present to win To book your flight, register below.

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