Monarch  Preconference Trainings

GITWL - Monarch Preconference Training Application

The American Printing House for the Blind (APH) and our partners warmly invite professionals in the field of blindness and low vision to apply to attend our Monarch Training, to be held at 2025 Getting in Touch with Literacy Conference (Alabama). This exciting program offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the Monarch, a dynamic tactile device that provides multi-line braille and tactile graphic images on the same surface. Participants may apply for the AM Beginner Session, the PM Advanced Session, or BOTH, depending on interest and prior experience. Monarch devices will be provided on loan for in-session use only. Devices will be returned after the training.

Application Deadline: Application will be accepted until October 31th or until all seats are filled.

Notification: Applications received before September 1st will be reviewed and notified by September 15, 2025. Applications AFTER September 1st will be reviewed and approvals will be on a first come, first served basis until all available seats are filled.

Selection Criteria
We seek professionals who demonstrate expertise in braille, assistive technology, and the education of students/clients who are blind or have low vision.

Travel Support
Limited financial assistance may be available to offset attendance costs. Approved applicants may receive reimbursement up to $500. Details regarding eligible expenses and reimbursement procedures will be provided upon selection. Please indicate on the application if you would like to be considered for travel support.

Pre-Training Requirement
To ensure participants are prepared for the session(s) they attend, completion of the following HIVE courses is required no later than October 31st, 2025:

Beginner session applicants must complete both:

1. Getting Started with the Chameleon 20

2. Advancing with the Chameleon 20

Advanced session and full day applicants must complete:

1. Mastering the Monarch

These courses are essential for establishing a foundational understanding of refreshable braille devices and key commands, setting you up for success with the Monarch. Each course is two credit hours, and you must submit the follow-up activity before the deadline. We strongly encourage completing the required course(s) as early as possible.

To apply, please complete the form at the link below: 

GITWL - Monarch Training Application 

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us at outreach@aph.org . We look forward to seeing your application. 

Jeff Schwartz

Director of Regional Training & Outreach

502.899.2218

1839 Frankfort Avenue • Louisville, KY 40206

aph.org • jschwartz@aph.org