Stephanie joined A Shared Vision as an Early Intervention Teacher of the Visually Impaired in 2021. She also works as a TVI and O&M specialist for the Summit school district. She and her husband Derek moved to Colorado in 2016 from Virginia where she was a TVI for the Loudoun County public schools. In 2018 they moved to Summit County and had their first child, Dutton, in 2021. “We always dreamt of living in the mountains. I love cross country skiing, hiking, and fishing. While at a conference I saw there was an opening in Summit County for a TVI so I went for it,” explains Stephanie.

While Stephanie enjoys working with students in a classroom setting, she prefers how families in early intervention choose what they want to work on with their child in their home. “Because the goals are family led, I feel there is a greater appreciation for my support especially while working towards functional goals such as helping their baby crawl over different surfaces with confidence,” explains Stephanie.

Living in a rural community has its challenges, including the lack of nearby services and the distances families drive to get to appointments, school, and other places. “I always remind myself while the drive is long, I’d rather be staring at the mountains than someone’s bumper!” says Stephanie. Telehealth has also made Stephanie’s job easier because it allows her to see more families.