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Friday November 6, 2026 TBA
Services and Classroom Applications from the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled and the Instructional Materials Center 
This presentation will highlight innovative teaching and learning practices—such as phenomena‑based science approaches and accessible STEM content—that support diverse learners. It will showcase collaboration and partnerships that connect schools, agencies, and statewide resources to expand instructional pathways.  


During the session the staff from the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled (Library) will give an overview of the statewide services offered by the Library and its Instructional Materials Center (IMC), including braille production, large print materials, tactile graphics, accessible digital formats, and educator support. Presenters will explain how educators can request accessible educational materials, how IMC workflows support timely classroom delivery, and how the IMC connects learners with accessible literacy resources. 


Abby Brown, 5th grade teacher at the Durant Community School District, will co-present to demonstrate practical, classroom strategies for integrating accessible formats into instruction. Real examples, adapted materials, and accessibility tools will be shared to help educators better support students who are blind, visually impaired, or print disabled. 
Presenters
avatar for Abby Brown

Abby Brown

5th grade teacher, Durant Community School District
Abby is a 5th grade teacher at Durant Elementary school entering her third year of teaching. She is passionate about project based learning, STEM education, and creating accessible learning experiences for all students. After completing a summer teacher externship at with the Iowa... Read More →
avatar for Leslie Heinzler

Leslie Heinzler

Special Services Librarian, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Leslie is the Special Services Librarian at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled.  She has been a librarian for over 20 years, with over 10 years at the Iowa Library for the Blind.  She is passionate about accessibility and equal access to information.  She enjoys... Read More →
avatar for Leland Smith

Leland Smith

Service Specialist for the Instructional Materials Center, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Leland Smith brings both professional expertise and lived experience to the conversation on accessibility in education. As a blind individual who attended Iowa public schools, he offers a firsthand perspective on the importance of accessible educational materials and inclusive learning... Read More →
avatar for Sarah Willeford

Sarah Willeford

Library Director, Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled
Sarah Willeford is the Library Director at the Iowa Library for the Blind and Print Disabled, where she leads statewide efforts to ensure reading and information are accessible to all Iowans. With more than 25 years of experience in libraries of all types—and over 12 years with... Read More →
Friday November 6, 2026 TBA

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