Intervener Training Series 2025-2026

What Is an Intervener?

An intervener is a trained paraprofessional staff member who works one-on-one with a child who has combined hearing and vision loss (deafblindness) to provide critical connections to other people and the environment. The intervener opens channels of communication, provides access to information and the environment, and facilitates opportunities for learning and development.

What Is the Importance of an Intervener?

Combined hearing and vision loss creates unique and complex challenges. These challenges are in the areas of communication, concept development, and social and emotional access and development. An intervener responds to these challenges by serving as a bridge to the world for the child who has both hearing and vision loss (deafblindness).

F riday 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM dinner provided
Saturday 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM lunch provided

October 24-25, 2025: Introduction to Deafblindness and Intervention
Carolyn Monaco, Intervener Trainer

November 14-15, 2025: Hearing and Vision Loss, Impact of Deafblindness
Kim Simshauser, Teacher of Blind/Visually Impaired

January 16-17, 2026: The Power of Touch
Lindsey Hegg, Teacher of Blind/Visually Impaired

February 6-7, 2026: Concept Development
Carolyn Monaco, Intervener Trainer

March 6-7, 2026: Communication and the Learner Who Is DeafBlind
Nancy Steele, DeafBlind Educational Consultant

April 10-11, 2026: The Importance of Self-Determination and Relationships
Emma Mayes, Teacher of Developmental Cognitive Disabilities

GRAD credit(s): 1 credit for Fall 2025 and 3 credits for Spring 2026

Host or Publisher USD Center for Disabilities