Expanding Inclusion: What I Learned at the California School for the Blind
A visit to the California School for the Blind opened my eyes to the intersection of visual impairment and intellectual disability—and inspired a new path for inclusive advocacy at BTR TMRW.
Did you know that many students with visual impairments—including those who are blind or have low vision—also have intellectual disabilities?
The statistics are staggering, and honestly, I was taken aback when I first learned about the overlap. It’s something I hadn’t fully grasped until recently—a blind spot in my own understanding of inclusive education.
That changed when Fremont City Council Member Kathy Kimberlin invited me to join her for a visit to the California School for the Blind, located right here in the heart of Fremont.
A Wake-Up Call Close to Home
As we toured the school and met with staff, it became clear that this intersection of disability—visual impairment and intellectual disability—is not only more common than many realize, but also deeply underrepresented in broader conversations about access, support, and equity.
Although I may be arriving late to this conversation, BTR TMRW is stepping in with full intent. We’re exploring how we can contribute meaningfully to the lives of students who navigate these unique and complex challenges. Because when we know better, we must do better.
Meeting Changemakers: Rebecca Rosenberg of ReBokeh
One of the most inspiring moments of the week came when I met Rebecca Rosenberg, founder and CEO of ReBokeh Vision Technologies, Inc. Based in Baltimore, she’s pioneering accessible tech that enhances visual experiences for people with low vision.
To meet someone so deeply committed to innovative inclusion on a global scale—and to do so right after my visit to the School for the Blind—felt like more than coincidence. It felt like a signal.
Listening to the Universe—and Taking Action
I say it often, but I’ll say it again: I’m grateful for the extraordinary people I’ve had the chance to meet through this work. When you lead with intention and listen carefully, the universe tends to place the right people in your path.
This feels like a beginning. A new chapter in BTR TMRW’s journey toward advancing equity for students with disabilities—especially those who are too often overlooked. The best is yet to come.