
Literacy for All: Canadian Vision Teachers Retreat
Empowering Educators to Inspire the Next Generation of Braille Readers
Dates: Monday, August 11 – Thursday, August 14, 2025
Location: CNIB Lake Joe, 4 Joe Finley Way, MacTier, ON
Register Now to secure your spot at this exciting professional development opportunity for Canadian Teachers of Students with Visual Impairment (TSVIs).

Join us for a four-day retreat featuring Dr. Diane Wormsley, a world-renowned expert on braille literacy and creator of the I-M-ABLE (Individualized Meaning-Centered Approach to Braille Literacy Education). This retreat offers the tools and inspiration you need to elevate your teaching practices while enjoying the natural beauty and accessible amenities of CNIB Lake Joe.
Why Attend?
This retreat blends expert-led instruction, hands-on learning, and networking with peers across Canada. Highlights include:
- I-M-ABLE Workshop: Dive into Dr. Wormsley’s student-centered approach to teaching braille literacy.
- Hands-on Tech Exploration: Try new tools like Bonocle.
- LEGO Braille Bricks Training: Learn how to use this engaging resource.
- CNIB Next Generation Introduction: Discover innovative initiatives supporting students who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision.
Don’t miss this unique chance to develop your skills and collaborate with fellow educators.
Register Now to reserve your spot!

Who Should Apply?
We’re inviting TSVIs from across Canada to bring diverse perspectives and share their experiences teaching braille to students of all ages.
- Spaces Are Limited: Ontario-based applicants are capped at 40% to ensure representation from across the country.
- Priority for Early Applications: Submit your registration as soon as possible to secure your spot today.
Program Details
Transportation
A shuttle will run between the Toronto Marriott Airport Hotel and Lake Joe.
- Departure from the hotel to Lake Joe: Monday, August 11, at 12:00 PM
- Return to the hotel from Lake Joe: Thursday, August 14, at approximately 5:00 PM
Participants are responsible for arranging and covering the costs of all other travel.
Meals & Accommodations
CNIB will provide:
- Meals: Beginning with dinner on Monday, August 11, and ending with lunch on Thursday, August 14. Meals will be served family-style in the Dining Room at specified times.
- Accommodations: Each room features two single beds and an attached bathroom. Roommates will be assigned to ensure a shared camp experience.
Participants are responsible for any additional meals or accommodations outside the program dates.
Program Outline
Download “Reconnecting with I-M-ABLE – Braille Literacy Education for Students with Diverse Profiles”, a program outline to support accreditation.