Barrier Awareness Day 2008

11th annual Barrier Awareness Day, April 25, 2008 sponsored by the Mayor’s Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities was held at the SD School for the Blind & Visually Impaired.

Some of the over 200 students from area 5th and 6th grades are shown in this photo.

Superintendent of the School, Dr. Marje Kaiser spoke to the kids about barriers.

Mayor Mike Levsen addressed the group and welcomed them to the annual event.

Students viewed a video entitled “Ripple Effect” produced by Dan Cleberg on the subject of invisible disabilities.

Rollie White also shared his experiences with people who are disabled.

Students practice helping a blind person by being “sighted guides.”

Some disabilities make it hard for people to learn; they are called “learning disabilities.” Here some students feel what it is like to have such a disability.

Sandra Payne demonstrates the brailler and some other electronic devices to help blind people read.

Students experience physical disabilities by spending time in wheelchairs.

Dawn Brush and her guide dog, Whimsey, show students how her dog can help her get around safely.