Public Notice

Notice: The IESDB Board of DirectorsRegular Board meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, March 12th, has been cancelled. A notice will be provided her when it is rescheduled.

Welcome to Our Site

Brian Darcy, Agency Administrator

Dear Students, Families, and Staff, Stakeholders and Community partners,

Welcome back to another exciting year at the Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind! As we embark on this new academic journey, I am filled with immense pride and optimism for the exceptional opportunities that lie ahead. Our commitment to providing an inclusive and empowering education remains unwavering. Our dedicated educators, support staff, and administrators have spent countless hours preparing for this moment – a moment that symbolizes not just a return to school, but a return to growth, learning, and community.

For our students who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or low vision, this is a place where your unique talents are celebrated, and your dreams are nurtured. We understand that every individual's path is different, and we are here to guide and support you every step of the way to achieve your potential. Together, we will conquer challenges, discover new strengths, and achieve remarkable feats. Families, you are an integral part of our school community. Your partnership, insights, and involvement contribute significantly to the success of our students. We encourage open communication and collaboration to ensure that each student's needs are met comprehensively and effectively. As we navigate the current educational landscape, we remain adaptable and resourceful. We have integrated the latest technologies and teaching methodologies to enhance the learning experience, both in-person and through distance education. The partnerships we have developed only enhance the educational services we provide. Our goal is to provide a safe and conducive environment for all students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

In my 13 years in this position, I never tire of witnessing the growth of our students as they explore new subjects, engage in meaningful discussions, and form lasting friendships. Let us embrace the spirit of curiosity, empathy, and determination that defines our small community. I am also thrilled to highlight the important role of our Outreach Services. These services extend beyond the walls of our school and into local communities, into local school districts, and the sanctity of homes, ensuring that the valuable resources and support we offer are accessible to as many students and families as possible. Our commitment to outreach reflects our belief in the transformative power of education, empowerment, and inclusion.

On behalf of the entire Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind family, I extend a warm welcome to all – returning students, new students, families, and staff. Let us make this academic year one of resilience, learning, and joy. Here's to a successful and enriching school year! Cheers!

graduate celebrates after diploma

Eligibility Criteria for I.S.D.B. Campus Program

Children between the ages of 3 to 21,

  • who have an established hearing or vision loss that qualifies them for special education or a 504 Plan,
  • live in the state of Idaho,
  • and are not able to be provided an appropriate education in the local district settings,

may be considered for enrollment in the ISDB campus program. Reasons for referral and placement in the ISDB campus program may include, but are not limited to, a need for:

  • Services unique to deaf or hard of hearing, or blind or visually impaired students which are not readily available in the local district;
  • More intensive language and communication development than readily available in the local district;
  • Assistive technology devices not available in the local district;
  • Greater array of auditory or visual support services;
  • Social skill development;
  • Transition planning to post-school outcomes;

Placement Options at the I.S.D.B.

  • The I.S.D.B. operates a day program for Idaho students within the ISDB’s daily bus routes,
  • The I.S.D.B. operates a residential program (including the Cottage Life Program), for Idaho students who live outside of the ISDB daily bus routes.
    • Admission to I.S.D.B. Cottage Life Program
      • Student must meet the following requirements, in order to be successful with Cottage Life programming:
        • Exhibit behaviors that are safe for self and others,
        • Demonstrate age appropriate (or near age appropriate) levels of independence and self-help skills,
        • Any medical needs of the child can be accommodated by the health services team in the school.

Process for Placement at the I.S.D.B. Campus Program

All students must be referred for placement at I.S.D.B. by their current Idaho District. Parents/ families cannot self-select ISDB placement for their child.

If families are interested in placement at ISDB for their child, they must communicate this desire to their child’s IEP team or 504 team in the school / district where they reside.  Parents will need to request a meeting to address placement concerns. Parents and student are expected to schedule a visit to the I.S.D.B. campus before formal discussions concerning a placement change.

A change of placement is discussed and decided only:

  • through the IEP team meeting process, with the Special Education Director of the student’s home district (LEA), or Administrative designee, supporting the change of placement and providing the referral.
  • Or, through a 504 Meeting, with the 504 team in the student’s home district (LEA) supporting the change of placement and the 504 Coordinator or Principal providing the referral.

Note: The I.S.D.B. Campus program operates within the Idaho public education system.  Therefore, there is no cost to the family for a child to attend I.S.D.B.

For more information about the admission process, contact your I.E.S.D.B. Outreach Consultant, or call the I.S.D.B. Director of Education at 208-934-4457.