Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind

The board discussed and approved a consent calendar including minutes, a vacancy report, and a donated funds report. There was an enrichment fund request for a tandem bicycle, which led to a discussion on funding limits and a motion for a contribution. The meeting also featured a presentation on the 7048 race, focusing on the endurance event's impact on students' physical and emotional well-being, their grit, and community building, with student and parent testimonials.

The council discussed the vacancy report, donated funds summary, and received presentations regarding the school's travel programs, specifically the 'Epic Road Trip' and 'Stateside Adventure'. Students shared their experiences and the skills gained, such as independence, time management, route planning, and navigation of public transit systems. The council reviewed the value and educational objectives of these programs to support continued funding.

This School LAND Trust Plan for Jean Massieu School for the Deaf aims to ensure that at least 65% of students at USDB demonstrate measurable academic growth in literacy, mathematics, or science by the end of the 2026-2027 school year. The plan allocates funds, primarily for educational technology, to address critical academic needs and enhance classroom instruction in these core areas.

The Advisory Council meeting featured public comments from families regarding accessibility, language access, and concerns over the organizational structure of the superintendent position. The board discussed and approved a vacancy report and donated funds summary. A presentation was provided regarding the reduced enrichment fund request for fiscal year 2027, detailing items to be held or eliminated, including music programming, deaf-blind enrichment programs, and high-tech allocations. Additionally, council members reviewed stakeholder feedback data concerning family priorities for program funding and the ongoing need for improved accommodations for students with multiple disabilities.

This document outlines the Utah School for the Deaf's 'Portrait of a Learner: An Illuminated Path for D.E.A.F. Success!' framework. It aims to prepare Deaf/Hard of Hearing students for life after graduation by fostering their Deaf identities, skills of excellence, ability for autonomy, and foundations for life. The framework details essential skills and attitudes through developmental milestones organized by grade band, providing a comprehensive roadmap for student development from birth through post-high school to ensure success.