Ivy Parker

The Maryland School for the Blind

Serving as an integral part of Maryland's special education continuum, The Maryland School for the Blind works to exceed student-achievement expectations by setting high standards and providing best practice programs in state-of-the-art facilities. 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, an adapted computer 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. 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.