Amy Shepherd, M.Ed.

About the Author

Amy Shepherd, M.Ed., CCVI, is an author, educator, and advocate for children who are blind or visually impaired. Her journey began as the mother of a young man who is legally blind and grew into a passion for making early learning more accessible, meaningful, and joyful.

Amy serves as a CVI Specialist for the Michigan Department of Education Resource for Blind and Low Vision (MDE-RBLV). She holds a master’s degree in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University, a graduate certificate in Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment from UMass Boston, and a Perkins-Roman CVI Range Endorsement.

Amy creates accessible books and literacy materials designed to spark wonder, encourage exploration, and invite children to participate in the joy of reading. Her debut published book, Hooray for Summer, began a growing collection created with love and guided by a deep commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Fun Facts About Amy Shepherd

• Dubbed the “Advocate General” by friends: I’ve spent decades leading
  nonprofits, planning family retreats, and advocating for inclusive learning. I’ve served as President of Michigan Parents of Children with Visual Impairments, currently sit
  on the APH Parent Advisory Board, and stay active with the Lions Club and National Federation of the Blind.
• Put me in, Coach—I’m ready to play: Sports have always been a big part of who I
  am. I grew up playing tennis, soccer, and downhill skiing—eventually competing in
  Division I tennis and teaching part-time for over 30 years. I believe sports build
  teamwork, character, and perseverance—and they break down barriers for people
  with disabilities. These days, I’m hooked on Pickleball and still love teaching
  adaptive sports, from guiding skiers to coaching racket games with kids who inspire
  me every day.
• Plot twist: I became an author. When I couldn’t find books that worked for my
  students with CVI, I started writing them myself. That turned into the CVI Book
  Nook—a free library of accessible stories and resources for families and teachers.
• My happy place: Anywhere near a lake or in the mountains—ideally with a loved
  one, a bit of sunshine, and maybe a book or two.