Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind

The meeting commenced with introductions, noting the presence of a new virtual representative for the deaf advisory council, Brooke Grassenger, who will attend in person next month. Key discussion revolved around public comments from several stakeholders. Public speakers voiced strong support for a proposed language and communication plan to be added to IEPs and 504 plans for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, citing experiences where current accommodations were insufficient or stigmatizing. Concerns were raised regarding the implementation of these plans, especially in rural areas. Other speakers addressed funding allocations for enrichment funds, urging that these monies be protected for student experiences rather than administrative compensation, particularly concerning teacher salary lines. Further public comment supported increased mentorship opportunities for blind and visually impaired students in recreation and physical activities, including adaptive sports like floor hockey. Finally, there was a presentation advocating for the establishment of a multi-hub blind hockey program to service visually impaired students and adults, aiming for future inclusion in Paralympic sports.

This Teacher and Student Success Plan for USB/USDB outlines strategic goals to enhance the overall growth, proficiency, and well-being of students who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind. Key focus areas include achieving academic goals in reading (Braille readiness) and math (foundational numeracy), and developing emotional resilience. The plan aims to close achievement gaps and prepare students for a fulfilling adult life, aligning with broader strategic priorities and state-level intervention frameworks.

The School LAND Trust Plan for Jean Massieu School for the Deaf focuses on improving student academic performance in reading, math, and science for 65% of students by the end of the 2025-26 school year, measured by individual IEP goals. The plan emphasizes leveraging educational technology and curricula across various academic areas, including English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, and Technology, to support student learning and progress.

This strategic plan for the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind outlines a roadmap to cultivate deaf and hard-of-hearing students, enabling them to achieve their full potential and become contributing members of their communities. The plan is built upon six overarching strategic priorities: Academics, Collaboration, Transition, Educator Excellence, Safety & Security, and Facilities & Space. Key objectives include improving student outcomes, strengthening family and community relationships, ensuring successful post-graduation transitions, fostering high-quality educators, enhancing safety and security protocols, and expanding educational facilities to accommodate growth.

The mission is to provide exceptional, research-based, and comprehensive education for children and young adults who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind in early intervention, outreach, campus, and residential programs. The vision is to be a national leader in vision programs and services, using the Expanded Core Curriculum to deliver innovative instruction and experiences to prepare children and young adults of varying ability who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind for a rich and fulfilling adult life. The plan focuses on academics, stakeholder engagement, and transition planning, with specific action steps and outcomes for each division (Campus, Outreach, Deafblind, and Early Childhood).