A legally blind student in Wallaceburg is turning her life experience into a lesson on inclusion. Legacie Shipman-Rogers leads a weekly club teaching peers Braille and sign language.
At A.A. Wright Public School in Wallaceburg, inclusion has become a hands-on weekly activity thanks to a remarkable student initiative. Led by Grade 5 student Legacie Shipman-Rogers, the school’s Braille Club has become a vibrant part of the school culture.
Legacie, who is legally blind, has turned her life experience into an opportunity to connect with her peers. Each week during the lunch hour, she leads engaging sessions where students learn Braille and participate in hands-on activities.
Students also get the chance to experience using Brailler machines provided through the school board's Blind/Low Vision department.
What started as a small initiative has grown significantly in popularity. The program recently expanded to include a sign language component, giving participants a chance to practice signing and deepen their understanding of communication diversity.
Legacie runs the club alongside Julianne Vandernaalt, a teacher for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing/Blind and Low Vision with the Lambton Kent District School Board. For Vandernaalt, the initiative is personal.
Vandernaalt is a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA) and has a child with low vision. She praises the Grade 5 student's unique leadership style.
"Once you meet her, you won't ever forget her," Vandernaalt said.
Outside of the club, Legacie is known for stopping to chat with her favourite staff and fellow students. She also takes time to introduce school visitors to the school's resident fish, Gary.
Her enthusiasm has turned the Braille Club into a symbol of acceptance, working to make the school community a welcoming place for all.
