Special Education
Cranes near Burns. (Photo courtesy Linda Ziegenhagen)
Oregon School for the Deaf
Patti Togioka, Director
Address: 999 Locust St. NE, Salem 97301-5254
Phone: 503-378-3825 (Voice/TDD)
Fax: 503-373-7879
Web: www.osd.k12.or.us/
Established in 1870, the Oregon School for the Deaf (OSD) enrolls students who, because of hearing impairment, need a more comprehensive level of service and/or a more communication-rich environment than can be provided through their regular public school. OSD is funded by legislative appropriation and is operated by the Oregon Department of Education. In 2004–05, between 125–135 students were enrolled at the school, at no cost to their families.
Teachers certified to teach the deaf use American Sign Language or Total Communication in all instructional settings. Total Communication uses a variety of modes depending on individual student needs. Modes may include: American Sign Language, English-like signing, spoken English or print. The academic curriculum is enhanced by classes in speech, computer literacy, driver education, art and drama. OSD’s high school is Oregon’s only residential, comprehensive, secondary program designed exclusively for deaf students.
Oregon School for the Blind
Donald A. Ouimet, Director
Address: 700 Church St. SE, Salem 97301-3795
Phone: 503-378-3820
Fax: 503-373-7537
Web: www.ode.state.or.us/osb
The Oregon School for the Blind (OSB) provides intensive educational services for students who are visually impaired. OSB’s mission includes a continuum of support to district and regional vision programs and to children and their parents.
Established in 1873, the school is operated by the Oregon Department of Education and funded by legislative appropriations. Students ages five through 21 who need a more intensive level of individualized special education than can be provided locally are served by OSB at no cost to their families. OSB’s average annual enrollment in the school year program is 50 students. Through all program areas, approximately 400 visually impaired children in Oregon are served each year.
OSB’s services are provided by staff who have specialized skills in working with children who are visually impaired. Teachers (including adapted physical education, technology, orientation and mobility, and vocational), related service staff (including occupational and physical therapy, speech, autism, counseling and nursing services), and residential service staff provide a 24-hour program that includes time in the community and inclusion with non-disabled peers.