IESBVI teacher of the visually impaired noticed something about her student Dylan Reineke. “He will always listen and give advice to his peers,” she said. “He is always willing to help teachers and volunteers to run errands. He is respectful to adults and peers.”
Marth was so impressed by Reineke, she nominated him for the 2023 Marie Hoenig Memorial Perkins Braille Award last spring. He was chosen by the Iowa Council of the United Blind (ICUB) committee, which considers applicants from three states. Candidates are chosen based on their progress in school and caring for others.
At ICUB’s convention Aug. 26 in Ankeny, Reineke received the brailler and was celebrated by those who were attending the convention’s luncheon.
Marth noted Dylan is fast and efficient using the Perkins braille, and will use it to make lists, write recipes and notes for himself. “Dylan’s favorite part of braille is writing,” said Marth. “He excels at speed and accuracy while using the brailler.”
Reineke completed his senior year at Underwood High School and is now enrolled into the 4PLUS transition program on the Council Bluffs campus.
The award is named for the mother of Mike Hoenig, who graduated from Iowa Braille and Sight Saving School. Marie bought Mike a Perkins Brailler when he was an elementary student so he could use and practice braille at home. The Hoenig family now works ICUB with to administer the annual award. Hoening presented the brailler to Reineke at the August convention.
Marth and Reineke stand with his new brailler. Reineke receives the brailler from Mike Hoenig.