As an avid braille reader, she keeps up with the rigor of her regular education classroom using materials adapted in braille paired with auditory and verbal input. Mars Area Elementary School’s library offers a collection of braille books for her to borrow, and her STEAM teachers have adapted lessons and art projects that are accessible and meaningful.
Eichenauer is beginning to increase her use of assistive technology designed for those who are blind, including learning how to use a refreshable braille display and screen reader software. She uses an abacus for solving one- to three-digit addition and subtraction equations and will soon be introduced to multiplication, division and higher-level skills.
In 2024, Eichenauer earned first place in the Apprentice Category (Grades 1-2) of the Pennsylvania Regional Braille Challenge. For more information, visit www.wpsbc.org.