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Our Vision
It is the vision of The Maryland School for the Blind to be:
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The premier statewide resource for the specific educational and living skill needs of all individuals (particularly ages 0-21) with visual impairment in Maryland.
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The statewide training center for those who work or live with individuals with visual impairment.
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A model demonstration site for the education and employment of individuals with visual impairment.
Our Mission
The Maryland School for the Blind educates children and youth with visual impairments, including those with multiple disabilities, for functional independence.
Children need to laugh and play. They need to feel good about themselves. They need to feel part of the world around them, to enjoy a beautiful day, to know that they are part of something larger than themselves. Children need time to be children. This is a simple truth that is so obvious that it is often overlooked; however, it is an important part of the daily routine here at The Maryland School for the Blind.
Since we first opened our doors in 1853, we have treated the whole child, not just the disability. We provide instructional, residential, orientation and mobility, recreational activities, health services, physical, speech and occupational therapies and braille instruction.
We teach all of the basics, including math, reading and science, in addition to the specialized services tailored to meet the needs of our students. We also understand the role of caring and compassion as it relates to our students. We make them feel special and important. We encourage them to try new things, to make new friends, to expand their horizons.
Students who are "just" blind attend school in their local school districts where they learn in a classroom with their peers and remain close to their families and friends. Many of these students receive specialized support services from The Maryland School for the Blind. They may need a brailled textbook, a low vision magnifier, a specialized computer adapter or other support that helps them to succeed in their local school and we are there to provide that support.
The majority of the students on our Baltimore campus are blind or visually impaired and multiply disabled. There is a very special challenge in providing services for these children and meeting their special needs, but it is a challenge we meet each and every day. Our dedicated staff of professionals use their expertise, experience and caring each day to help our students be the best that they can be and achieve their full potential.
It is not uncommon for visitors to comment on the "normal" behavior of our "disabled" students. People are surprised to learn that our students compete in swim meets, bowling, wrestling and track. Our students participate in Drama Club, Boy Scouts, Arts & Crafts, Skiing, and a host of other activities. They are independent, confident, happy children.
We never forget that our students have many specialized and unique needs. Most importantly, we never forget they are also children, youth and young adults.
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