The Freedom Scientific Student of the Month Program features K-12 students living in the U.S. who are blind or visually impaired and use Freedom Scientific technology to achieve educational goals. The Student of the Month for January 2025 is Brielle, a fourth grader from California.
Brielle began using JAWS and the Focus 40 Blue braille display six months ago, and said she loves using both products to complete assignments in and out of the classroom. “My assistive technology teachers taught me how to use my computer,” she proudly explains.
Brielle’s favorite subjects are math, spelling, and English. “I like learning a lot of stuff. In math class, I use the Braille Math Editor and JAWS to complete math problems. I also use JAWS and the Focus to do assignments and take tests.”
In her free time, she enjoys playing drums, ukulele, and piano. “Drums are my favorite. I like to play music because I learn a lot of new songs,” she says.
Brielle is also interested in becoming a technology teacher when she grows up. “I want to teach other kids how to use the computer like my tech teachers did with me.”
When asked what advice Brielle would give anyone learning JAWS and the Focus, she would begin by sharing how she uses these products. “I would tell them some things I do like go on Google Classroom, complete assignments, and take tests. I can also type on the computer or on my Focus 40. I would tell them that the computer and the Focus are so cool.”
Learn more about Brielle in this video.
Nominate a Student
Complete our nomination form to self-nominate or nominate a student. Visit the Freedom Scientific Student of the Month page for details and watch our blog for the next winner and that student’s story.
Winners receive a $300 Amazon gift card and a five-year license for JAWS, ZoomText, or Fusion. Their story will be featured by Freedom Scientific on our blog and social media—X, (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, Mastodon, and Threads.
In partnership with Computers for the Blind, each winner can also receive a free, refurbished computer along with a free one-year Home Annual license of JAWS or ZoomText, which is already installed. Learn more about Computers for the Blind and their partnership with Freedom Scientific on their order page.
Have questions? Send an email to training@vispero.com.