STARS students participate in a variety of recreational activities including goalball—a competitive team sport played three on three with a ball that has bells inside.
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Music is an important part of a STARS student’s emotional and social development.
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STARS (Social, Therapeutic and Recreational Services) is a recreational and social skills program for students ages six to 21 who are blind or visually impaired. The objectives of the STARS program are to promote social interaction, increase community access opportunities, encourage healthy lifelong recreational habits, build leadership and social skills and promote appropriate independent living skills.
STARS provides activities and programs year-round. The After-School Enrichment Program offers classes such as daily living skills, computer literacy, braille, tutoring, dance, music and listening skills. The program runs two afternoons a week, October through March.
Recreation opportunities such as swimming and goalball (an indoor team sport designed for visually impaired individuals) are also offered once a week at certain times throughout the year.
Monthly activities complement programs offered through the After-School Enrichment Program. These activities include cultural and educational field trips, outdoor recreation, an annual service project and an annual self-esteem retreat.
Every summer, the STARS Summer Enrichment Camp offers a variety of daily activities and classes for students ages eight to 15 for six consecutive weeks.
The Springboard transition program prepares older STARS students to make a smooth transition from high school into adulthood, whether that means college, employment or vision rehabilitation training. The Springboard curriculum is designed to prepare students for independent living and covers topics such as money management and budgeting, home management, jobs and careers, self-advocacy, safety measures, organizational skills, social skills, and fitness and nutrition. The transition program includes two weeks of summer camp as well as classes and activities year-round.
Two additional programs enlist individuals who play a significant role in the lives of some STARS students.
For information about joining the STARS program, contact Annie Maxwell, STARS director, at 404-875-9011 ext. 4371.
To request information about volunteer opportunities through STARS, see Volunteer Services.
The Florence Maxwell Low Vision Clinic serves visually impaired individuals ages five and older. Children with low vision can use optical and non-optical devices, such as powerful magnifiers, lamps, CCTVs (closed circuit televisions), talking watches, and writing templates to help with school and leisure activities. For more information, see Low Vision Services.
