Jolene L. Madison

The strategic plan for the South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind outlines its long-term direction and goals, embodying critical areas for focus. It centers on five key pillars: enhancing recognition and marketing of SCSDB, operating a residential campus that supports students' holistic development, providing exceptional educational programming specifically for students with sensory loss, expanding outreach services for individuals who are deaf, blind, or sensory multi-disabled, and implementing a comprehensive campus master plan. The plan is designed to achieve the agency's mission and vision to engage, empower, and equip students for success.

The meeting included the President's report, which featured introductions of new staff, updates on campus repair projects, completion of the AAC greenhouse and a SCSDB History wall. The financial report was reviewed, followed by a legislative update on the budget process and campus operations, including renovations and reconstruction plans. The SCSDB Foundation update highlighted fundraising events and the progress of the history wall. The board elected officers for the 2025-2026 term and reviewed and approved revised SCSDB policies GCO and JIAA-R.

The meeting included a President's report with introductions of new staff, updates on campus repair projects, completion of the AAC greenhouse, and a recap of the 2025 graduation ceremony and summer camp. The board also received a financial report and a legislative update, including information on the legislative budget process and campus operations. Updates were provided on the SCSDB Foundation, including the history wall and fundraising events. The board elected officers for the 2025-2026 term and reviewed and approved revised SCSDB policies.

The 2025-2026 District Reading Plan for SC School for the Deaf and the Blind outlines a comprehensive approach to reading instruction and assessment tailored for students with sensory disabilities. It focuses on adapting the five pillars of reading instruction (oral language, phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension) through accessible strategies aligned with the science of reading, structured literacy, and foundational literacy skills. Key components include specialized instructional materials, multi-faceted assessment for intervention, parental engagement, district-level progress monitoring, and ongoing teacher training. The plan aims to enhance reading achievement and foster growth for all students.

The Board of Commissioners meeting included discussions on improving academic rigor and increasing nationwide visibility for SCSDB. Updates were provided on the financial status, legislative matters including the budget process and CLRC repairs, and the activities of the SCSDB Foundation. The Early Intervention Services and Fine Arts programs presented updates on their activities and impact. The board approved the 2025 SCSDB Board Awards, the 2025-2026 School Calendar, and a proposed fine arts course for middle school students.