32 Miss. Code. R. 22-3.4.1.2
The REACH Center, located in Tupelo, is a residential personal adjustment facility for individuals with blind or visual impairments living in Mississippi.
The REACH Center operates as an immersion center following the Structured Discovery Method of instruction, a non-visual technique of instruction that helps build self-confidence and teaches important life skills and problem solving.
Using blindfolds, referred to as "sleep shades", REACH students are taught to believe in and rely on their other senses for information. They learn to do simple, everyday tasks as a blind person in a highly supportive environment.
The majority of classes are in two-hour blocks. This allows the student plenty of time to problem-solve. Classes offered initially include: GED Preparation
* Health Education
* Leisure Activities/Community Involvement
* Vocational Evaluation
The REACH Center services consist of a mandatory six to nine month core curriculum that include:
* Cane Travel
* Home Economics
* Industrial Arts
* Braille
* Computer/Technology
* Techniques of Daily Living
As students near the completion of the core curriculum, they have the opportunity to participate in a variety of additional classes. These classes include, but are not limited to:
* Career exploration/job seeking skills
* Resume preparation and practice interviews
Students who complete the six to nine month program at REACH receive a certificate of completion and leave the center as more confident, independent individuals.
Referral Process for Addie McBryde and REACH
When the counselor determines that the client is in need of services offered by AMRC or REACH, the referring counselor will complete a service authorization in AACE listing the service/s they are requesting. The counselor must plan all anticipated services. The medical records and other referral material are to be sent by mail as soon as possible. Once all referral materials are received, the Addie McBryde Center staff will approve the authorization and issue it in AACE. If additional services are needed, the counselor will modify the original service request and add the additional services needed. Once services are completed, the authorization will be closed in AACE by the Addie McBryde or REACH Center staff Any information regarding the client can be accessed through AACE.
32 Miss. Code. R. 22-3.4.1.2