Deafblind Services

Welcome to the Deafblind Services Division of USDB!  

The Deafblind Services Division serves students (birth through 21) across the state who have both a documented vision and hearing loss. Highly trained personnel work in partnership with IEP/IFSP teams to offer a wide variety of service options. Activities help families and service providers gain access to information and resources in support of the child’s educational program.

Children with deafblindness often have other physical and cognitive impairments in addition to their vision and hearing loss. Each child’s unique needs are determined through appropriate assessments.   Necessary adaptations and modifications to help the child meet his/her educational goals are also provided. 

Deafblindness requires a unique approach to the educational process.  Because of the complex needs of the child with deafblindness the following services may be provided:

• Direct Service from deafblind specialists;
• Consultative Support provided to the child’s educational team which may include classroom teachers, early intervention providers, administrators, support staff or related service personnel;  
• For a young child or toddler, birth to age three, direct or consultative services may be provided in the Child’s Natural Environment;  
• If the IEP or IFSP team decides there is a significant need resulting from deafblindness, a one-on-one Communication Intervener who works under the direction of the deafblind specialist and the classroom teacher may be provided;
• Family information and support services.  

Feel free to browse the website, visit a campus near you, or contact me with questions, concerns, or more information. We are here to offer support, guidance, and expert advice and I am your advocate as you navigate through the programs and services that make up your child’s education.

I look forward to hearing from you!

leslieb@usdb.org