Learning Lab

Short-Term Programs Home: Short Courses | Learning Lab | Summer Academies

Our Learning Lab is committed to fostering growth through a wide range of educational opportunities. Our offerings include professional development sessions designed to enhance career skills and knowledge, practical parent workshops that provide effective parenting strategies and family engagement approaches, online courses for distant access to our resources, and dynamic single-day camps that offer enriching experiences for children and teens. While one can enroll in a single offering, participants are welcome to enroll in multiple programs. There are no associated fees with our resources.

Please complete our brief interest form Short Courses 2025-2026 Interest Form (Google Form) if you or someone you know may be interested in our courses.

Please reach out to our Short Courses team with any questions at csb.shortcourses@csb-cde.ca.gov, looking forward to hearing from you.

Announcing 2025-2026 Online Course Offerings

Smart Start: Organization and Success Strategies for Starting School Strong

Join Us On Zoom: Tuesdays, September 16 and 23, 2025; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 9-13

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by September 12, 2025

Through engaging activities and meaningful strategies, students will learn how to organize school supplies, manage assignments, and create systems that support independence. We'll explore accessible tools, organization techniques, and practical tips for keeping track of schedules, homework, and personal items. By the end of the course, students will create a personalized plan to stay organized and confident throughout the school year!

Smart Start: Organization and Success Strategies for Starting School Strong

Join Us On Zoom: Thursdays, September 18 and 25, 2025; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by September 12, 2025

This course goes beyond basic organization, helping students develop personalized systems for managing assignments, keeping track of deadlines, organizing digital and physical materials, and setting themselves up for academic success. We'll cover accessible apps, time management strategies, and self-advocacy skills to help students take charge of their learning. By the end of the course, students will have a customized toolkit to stay organized and confident throughout the school year!

Resume Builders: Real-World Skills for Future Careers

Join Us On Zoom: October 20-23, 2025; 4:00PM - 5:30 PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by October 15, 2025

Building Your Brand: Interview, Resume, and Social Media Skills for Success

In today's world, making a strong first impression goes beyond just a handshake. This online course is designed to build confidence with interview skills, craft professional resumes, and create engaging social media content to effectively portray meaningful, professional messaging.
Students will engage in project-based learning to grow strategies for showcasing their skills, talents, and interests. Whether preparing for first jobs, applying to colleges, or applying to competitive programs, students will gain practical skills and knowledge to boost their advocacy and skills.

Note: This three-part course is offered in October, February, and May of this school year. Each week different skills are highlighted. Students are welcome to come to all, or just one of these courses. Students will receive a certificate of completion to add to their portfolio with each course attended.

Kitchen Confidence: Essential Cooking Skills

Join Us On Zoom: November 11, 13, 18, and 20, 2025; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; All Ages

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by November 6, 2025

Cooking is an essential life skill, and this online course is designed to empower students to navigate the kitchen safely and independently. Over four interactive sessions, participants will learn key techniques for preparing meals with confidence. Each class will focus on a specific skill, such as safe cutting techniques, measuring and mixing, stovetop and oven safety, and meal planning for efficiency. With hands-on practice, guided instruction, and adaptive strategies, students will build their confidence in the kitchen and discover the joy of cooking. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this course will help you create delicious meals with independence!

Note: Come to one session, or come to all! Students are welcome to join for any number of sessions or skills.

Roll for Self Determination: Building Communication and Problem-Solving Skills Through Dungeons and Dragons

Join Us On Zoom: December 3 and 17, 2025, January 7 and 21, 2026; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by December 1, 2025

Before embarking on an adventure, it's time to gather your party and prepare for the journey ahead! This online component of Roll for Self-Determination introduces players to the basics of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), including character creation, game mechanics, and the art of storytelling. Through interactive discussions and fun icebreakers, participants will build connections with their fellow adventurers, explore their unique strengths, and develop the foundation for effective teamwork. By the end of these sessions, players will have a fully developed character, a solid understanding of the rules, and the confidence to step into their role as heroes of their own story.

Note: This course is coupled with our campus-based Roll for Self Determination Course in March 2026. Students are welcome to attend both or just one if they are not available for both.

Resume Builders: Real-World Skills for Future Careers

Join Us On Zoom: February 9-12; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by February 5, 2026

Connecting with Confidence: Networking & Self-Advocacy

Success isn’t just about what you know - it's about who you connect with and how you present yourself! This online course helps teens develop essential networking and self-advocacy skills to navigate academic, professional, and social opportunities. Participants will learn how to research and pursue opportunities, craft compelling introductions, and communicate their strengths with confidence. Through interactive activities, practical exercises, and real-world networking scenarios, students will gain the tools to advocate for themselves, build meaningful connections, and take charge of their futures.

Resume Builders: Real-World Skills for Future Careers

Join Us On Zoom: May 4-7; 4:00PM - 5:30PM; Ages 14+

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by April 29, 2026

The Productivity Playbook: Project Management for Teens

Big goals require smart strategies! This course introduces essential project management skills, including organization, backchaining, teamwork, and time management. Participants will learn how to break down complex tasks, set realistic deadlines, and collaborate effectively to complete projects efficiently. Through hands-on activities, real-world scenarios, and accessible tools, students will develop strategies to stay on track, communicate within a team, and adapt to challenges. Whether managing school assignments, personal projects, or future career goals, this course provides the skills to plan, execute, and succeed with confidence.

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Our 2024-2025 Offerings

Embrace Advocacy and Awareness

Join Us On Zoom: October 22 and 24, 4:00 - 5:30PM
For Students Ages 9-13

Join us for our October Online Short Course, an exploration of disability advocacy and awareness! This course features a special career conversation with blind guest speakers. Discover how they have navigated their professional roles with their disability. Enhance your advocacy skills by crafting a persuasive speech, delve into disability history, and explore valuable resources. Learn and get inspired by community engagement and your peers who join the course. Don't miss this chance to connect, learn, and advocate!

Exciting Volunteer Training Opportunity at California School for the Blind!

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact and support individuals who are visually impaired? Join us for our volunteer training sessions at the California School for the Blind!

Part One: Online Training
In this online session, we'll discuss blind culture and etiquette while you learn about various volunteer opportunities on our campus and understand what is expected of our dedicated volunteers. This is a great way to get started and prepare for your in-person training.

Part Two: In-Person Training
Location: California School for the Blind
In this hands-on session, you will gain practical experience in guiding and assisting individuals who are visually impaired. This is where theory meets practice, and you'll develop the skills needed to make a real difference.

Please visit our Volunteer Opportunities web page for latest information.

We look forward to welcoming you and working together. Thank you for your interest and support in making a difference in our community!

Adventure Awaits! Dungeons and Dragons (DND)

Join Us On Zoom: November 18 and December 4, 2024, 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Join Us In Person: January 16, 2025
For Students Ages 13+

Let your imagination take you on a journey unlike any other. Join our band of characters on an adventure where the players create the game. We will come together in a combination of online and in-person play. Our first meeting will be online, including character development, resources for DND, and information sharing. In our second meeting, we will set the stage to allow you to prepare for the adventure.

Once the scene has been set, we will meet in person for an all-day gaming extravaganza. Players will work together to overcome obstacles, work through challenges, and share in an immersive gaming experience.

Screen Reading Technology (SRT) and Me

Join Us In Person: January 22, 2025, 9:30AM - 12PM
Or Join Us on Zoom
For Professionals

Need help keeping up with changes in Assistive Technology for your students? Don't navigate this ever-changing landscape alone! Empowering students using technology enables them to gain independence and engage meaningfully with the world around them. Join us for an interactive workshop in-person at California School for the Blind, Fremont, California, where you will experience our updated Screen Reader Training Resources live while our staff answers your questions and prepares you to use this fantastic resource with your students. For an online Zoom option please follow the registration link and indicate your preference to attend via Zoom. Please note that we will be able to provide device access for participants attending our workshop in person.

Self-Care Together: A Workshop for Busy Parents on Involving Your Child

Join Us In Person Anne Campbell Center, San Mateo: February 12, 2025, 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Or Join Us on Zoom
For Parents

Join us for an empowering online parent workshop hosted by the California School for the Blind! This workshop is designed to support on-the-go parents in incorporating their blind children into everyday errands and self-care activities. From grocery shopping to hitting the gym, we'll provide practical guidance to help parents care for themselves, support their families, and actively involve their blind children. Don't miss this opportunity to learn valuable strategies and connect with supportive resources!

Workplace Resolutions

Join Us On Zoom: March 25th and March 27th, 2025, 4:00PM - 5:30PM
For Students Ages 16+

This online course provides opportunities to learn about conflict resolution and effective communication. The course will cover a range of scenarios addressing common workplace issues and advocacy-related challenges that individuals with visual impairment may encounter. Students will learn how to navigate conflicts assertively and professionally by analyzing practical scenarios, hearing from guest speakers, and participating in peer discussions while emphasizing their unique needs and perspectives.

Empowerment Exchange

Join Us Online: May 6th, 8th, 13th, 15th, 2025 (Tuesdays and Thursdays for two weeks), 4:00PM - 5:30PM
For Students Ages 9-13

Complete an Interest Form (Google Form) by April 28th, 2025

Welcome to "Empowerment Exchange", a transformative online course tailored for blind students. Throughout active participation, you'll engage in dynamic discussions, connect with guest speakers, and cultivate meaningful mentorship relationships. Each session offers opportunities to share stories, exchange resources, and foster a supportive community where everyone can thrive.

Join us as we embark on a journey of growth and empowerment, leveraging the power of connection to enhance your learning experience. Through collaborative engagement and peer support, you'll gain valuable insights, inspiration, and real-world perspectives on a variety of topics related to visual impairments. Together, we'll create a vibrant learning community where everyone will have the opportunity to new ways of succeeding in their home area and make lasting connections.