Based on strict guidance and careful attention to the fact that Blind Children's Learning Center provides critical services to a vulnerable population, we have transitioned to a 100% tele-health model for our therapy and classroom sessions. Since April 1st, BCLC has provided over 828 hours of tele-health services to over 240 children and their families. We appreciate speed at which our families, staff, and supporters have adapted to these times. BCLC is excited about the response and impact of our virtual services:
"Truly amazing virtual classes! I was concerned by 1.5 year old son would not be engaged because he is so young but the class format is perfect. He loves the circle time, songs and the class activities are always engaging and fun! I have been so impressed with the virtual classroom experience!" ~ BCLC Parent
To families receiving services, we have transitioned all services to a tele-health format. We remain committed to providing essential early intervention in order to promote healthy development and adaptive skills. In addition to sending activities home for our families, we have launched virtual classrooms. All speech, occupational, and physical therapies have successfully been transitioned to an online setting.
To supporters, we encourage you to take precautions to protect your own health and the health of others. Thank you for continuing to support our children and families. Essential services at BCLC support the health and education of children at severe risk of delays. We are working diligently to make sure those we serve continue reaching important milestones. If you are able, please consider sending a donation today to support this critical effort.
These times call for us to think adaptively and work together. While our physical offices are closed for the time being, BCLC will remain a place of support to our families. Our decisions will continue to be informed by guidance from the CDC, public health agencies, and collaborative partners like Orange County Department of Education and Regional Center of Orange County. To our families, staff, volunteers, and supporters, we will remain in regular contact to keep you informed about important developments.
Thank you for your support and well-wishes during this time. Together, we will all get through this.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Telehealth? The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defines telehealth as the use of electronic information and telecommunications technologies to support and promote long-distance clinical health care, patient and professional health-related education, public health and health administration. Technologies include videoconferencing, the internet, store-and-forward imaging, streaming media, and terrestrial and wireless communications. Until further notice, ALL programming and services from BCLC will be delivered via Telehealth and online learning.
2. When will students return to BCLC's school-based program? Until further notice, on-site programming will be suspended. This is in accordance to prohibitions against gatherings of any size and the closure of schools throughout Orange County and beyond.
3. Where can I find the most up-to-date BCLC information in regards to COVID-19? Continue to check this webpage for the most current information. As always, we recommend following guidance from the CDC to inform your personal safety practices. BCLC will continue to keep families informed through direct communication.
4. Why is BCLC not providing on-site classroom services? The contain the spread of COVID-19, Blind Children's Learning Center is operating in accordance to what the Orange County Department of Education has suggested, our school will not be providing on-site services for preventative measures.
5. If schools are closed, how will the service time be made up? We are awaiting further instruction based on the Orange County Department of Education. We will be working with each individual school district to create and implement their individual virtual learning plan according to the goals and milestones set in each child's Individual Education Plan (IEP). The Site Supervisor of Bright Visions, a program of BCLC, will contact families directly. We will ensure equity of access to quality education for our population, which includes reasonable accommodations for the needs of children with visual impairments and other disabilities.
6. Will COVID-19 impact the 16th Annual Destination Independence 5K Walk? We have transitioned this year's walk to be a virtual walk! You can find more information about it here.
For additional questions, please send us an email at [email protected].
