A Farewell Message from the Administrator
Dear Students, Families, Staff, Stakeholders, and Community Partners,
As this school year draws to a close, so too does a deeply meaningful chapter in my life. After 15 years as Administrator of the Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind, I prepare to step away from this role with profound gratitude, humility, and reflection. IESDB is not just where I’ve worked—it’s part of who I am. My ties to this community are rooted in family and in legacy. My father helped lay the very foundation of what Outreach Services in Idaho would become, ensuring that children and families across Idaho had access to the resources they deserved and as early as possible. He later served as Superintendent, always keeping students and their potential at the center of every decision. My mother, a dedicated paraprofessional, brought not only her compassion and skill to the classroom, but the heart of a parent—one who knew firsthand what it meant to raise a child who is blind. And my sister, a proud alumnus of IESDB, continues to remind me of the powerful impact this place has on students and their families.
This work has never been just a job to me—it’s been a calling, built on a legacy of service and shaped by a belief that every student deserves to be seen, heard, and empowered. To our students: You are the heartbeat of this organization. Your curiosity, courage, and determination inspire me every single day. You have taught me more than you know, and I will carry your stories and your spirit with me long after I leave this role. To our families: Thank you for your trust, your partnership, and your unshakable commitment to your children. You’ve helped us build a culture where collaboration and care go hand in hand. To the staff of IESDB: It has been my honor to lead alongside you. Your dedication and love for our students have been the bedrock of everything we’ve accomplished. I have seen you go above and beyond time and again—and it is your passion that breathes life into our mission. To the Gooding Community: I will always be a proud alumnus of Gooding High School. This community has taught me the value of hard work, humility and pride of accomplishment. Moreover the value of community support. This place doesn’t exist without Gooding’s support. To the many individuals—past and present—who have served on our Board of Directors: thank you for your time, wisdom, and commitment to the mission of IESDB. Your stewardship and guidance have been vital in navigating the challenges and celebrating the milestones of this organization. You have played a critical role in shaping the direction and ensuring the stability of our work across the state.
I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to our state leaders—our Legislators, our State Superintendent, our Governor, and the many public servants who have supported our agency’s mission over the years. Your recognition and the investment in the IESDB demonstrates the importance of educational equity which has empowered IESDB to serve all students who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or low vision with excellence and integrity. Let us all remember:
- Idaho is at its best when every citizen—regardless of ability—has access to a solid, inclusive, and empowering education.
- Leaving is not easy. But I do so with confidence in the future of this extraordinary institution—knowing it is in good hands, and that its heart continues to beat strong. Thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve. It has been the honor of a lifetime.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Administrator, Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind