LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Neal McKenzie was nominated by his colleague of 10 years, Leslie Edmonds.

"Neal's dedication to students and strong work ethic are only the beginning of a long list of positive attributes that define him. It is with extreme enthusiasm that I support Neal’s nomination for LifeChanger of the Year," said Edmonds.

Mr. McKenzie has a unique ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, para-educators, specialists, and parents. He's student-focused, but understands the positive results that come from collaboration and communication.

Mr. McKenzie is extremely focused on providing visually impaired students with the best possible technology and support available, and he works tirelessly to fill the students' needs. He is an assistive technology professional who will assess, provide support, innovate, and share his knowledge with educators, all with the goal of doing what is best for the students.

While his main focus is on technology for students with visual impairments, Mr. McKenzie also works on other important skills with the students, such as social interactions, advocacy, and problem solving.  He will work with students on making independent calls to tech support for devices they use so they gain this important skill for later in their lives.  He will work with students and make sure they are confident, independent users of technology. It's important to him that the students are not overwhelmed and that the technology matches their individual needs.

Mr. McKenzie has been recognized internationally for his innovation in 3D printing, and his open source designs have helped students with visual impairments all over the world.  Each week, Mr. McKenzie has been contacted by software companies, educators, makers, and technology professionals regarding his 3D prints. He has been asked to present his 3D prints at national and international conferences and has given SCOE a reputation for being progressive and innovative regarding services to students with disabilities. Mr. McKenzie shares his ideas and designs online, and he will work with anyone who contacts him should they have a question or issue.

"I have been a witness to him walking out the door and then turning around because a call has come in looking for help," said Edmonds. "His coat and bag are laid down, and Neal treats the inquiry with passion and grace.  He is a true asset to our local community and worldwide."

There have been many situations where Mr. McKenzie has adapted technology for students who have other disabilities than visual impairment. He works well with IEP teams to create custom assistive technology devices or make technology recommendations that are best for students at all levels and abilities.  He reaches across departments, schools, districts, regions and states to collaborate with student need in mind, always thinking how he can help.

Outside of work, Mr. McKenzie's list of volunteer committments shows his true dedication to helping those in need. He participates in a monthly meet-up for the visually impaired at the Earle Baum Center for the Blind in Santa Rosa. He interacts with students and parents while demonstrating the newest technology and patiently answering questions at this gathering, which is now a staple in the community. Mr. McKenzie also participates in a statewide list-serve for Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments, and he offers advice and recommendations to areas that cannot afford or find an assistive technology professional.  A team from another county recently said, “you guys in Sonoma are on the cutting edge” when responding on the list-serve to Mr. McKenzie’s assistance.

"Every day, I am inspired by Neal’s enthusiasm to serve our students.  Our department has grown closer since we are collaborating more and enjoy sharing ideas with each other," said Edmonds. "Neal challenges us to find innovative ways to serve our students with his support.  Our collective knowledge of technology and collaboration grows each year we work with Neal.  Our students, staff, and parents have an incredible LifeChanger in our midst."

You can see Neal's incredible work at:

https://www.tinkercad.com/users/8ylNV121LxD-at-neal

Twitter:  @neal_at

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBAJYVyOPopcg-j8GgJCFeg?app=desktop