Kat Kirbaba Speaks at her School's District Board Meeting

Speaking Up for What Matters

“I had the opportunity to speak at my district’s board meeting to advocate for continued funding for my transition program. I was nervous and excited, hoping that my words could make an impact. I shared how important it was for me to continue receiving the same supports I had in high school, including orientation and mobility and vision teachers, assistive technology, etc., Being in this program meant I didn’t lose those supports and gained so much more, along with stable transportation, and was able to receive an education in a way that truly worked for me, which is what I really wanted. I also reflected on how much I have grown and the level of support I have received within this program.”

I was nervous leading up to my turn to speak, especially after waiting while others went before me. With support from my O&M instructor, who showed me how to navigate to where I was going to speak, I felt a bit more prepared. Even so, I was nervous sitting down and looking out at the board members, but once I began speaking, I found myself sharing from the heart despite shaking a little. Afterward, I learned that many people felt engaged and impacted by my speech. Several even laughed at a joke I made about driving on the roads, and I was told that my message felt genuine and resonated with the audience.