PHOENIX Inside Ashley Ezell's fourth grade classroom at Saint Francis Xavier School in Phoenix, they're preparing for the holidays. <\/p>\n
But between the markers and colored pencils, Ezell is using a special tool to see the pictures her students draw. <\/p>\n
It looks just like a virtual reality headset and can zoom in on everything around her. It's called \"IrisVision\", a wearable device that transforms her vision from 20\/400 to 20\/30. <\/p>\n
\"I was diagnosed with Stargardt which is a form of macular degeneration,\" Ezell said. <\/p>\n
While Ezell is legally blind, her diagnosis hasn't stopped her from teaching. A year and a half ago, the community and a local girl scout troop pitched in to buy her the device to make working in the classroom a little easier. <\/p>\n
The first time she tried it on, Ezell says she was overcome with emotion. <\/p>\n
\"I just had tears rolling down because it was just the ease of knowing I can be present with my kids and not struggle or be embarrassed,\" she said. <\/p>\n
Ezell says using the technology has also taught her students about acceptance and overcoming whatever challenges come their way. <\/p>\n
\"Advocating for myself, teaching my kids to show empathy and kindness to others, I think that's the way I can give back and thank everybody who did pitch in because there's no other way to say thank you,\" Ezell said. <\/p>\n
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Phoenix teacher uses technology to see clearer in the classroom - ABC15 Arizona<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" PHOENIX Inside Ashley Ezell's fourth grade classroom at Saint Francis Xavier School in Phoenix, they're preparing for the holidays. But between the markers and colored pencils, Ezell is using a special tool to see the pictures her students draw. Continue reading