NYS School for the Blind
The New York State School for the Blind (NYSSB) is located in the city of Batavia, between the cities of Buffalo and Rochester, within easy reach of exit 48 of the New York State Highway (I-90). Dec.
The campus is a modern and spacious place where children enjoy going to school, make friends, experience education and entertainment. The school is part of a community of experienced and caring professionals and offers a safe learning environment. The programs, services and transportation offered for families are free of charge.
NYSSB Programs
The New York State School for the Blind provides a learning environment where children can reach their highest potential. Specialized training and various clinical and support services specially adapted to the needs of each student are offered in order to ensure the success of each student. In our school, teachers specializing in visual impairment guide students on a wide range of topics, from elementary school to secondary school and special education. These teachers work together to promote students’ independence and successfully prepare them for adulthood.
Parents and staff collaborate to help each student achieve the goals in the Individualized Educational Program. While the classes are kept small, the educational activities cover a large area, which includes preventive workshops, a gym, a swimming pool and a Sensory Decking playground. Technology is used effectively to support learning and promote achievement. Computers, electronic communication boards, low-vision reading devices and therapeutic equipment are personalized to improve the special abilities of each student.
The local community in which the school is located provides students with opportunities to achieve academic, social and other important goals. In addition, recent renovations to the Educational building at Severne Hall offer modern learning spaces, as well as larger classrooms and spacious and comfortable bathrooms that all students can use.
Who is eligible to attend the New York State School for the Blind (NYSSB)?
For a child to be able to participate in NYSSB:
- Legally Blind
- School-age (5-21 years of age)
- New York State Resident
- Students may have additional disabilities which could include;
– Autism, Deaf-Blindness, Deafness, Emotional discomfort, Hearing impairment, Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disability, Orthopedic Disorder,
Other Health Disorders, Special Learning Disabilities, Speech or Language Disorders, Traumatic Brain Injury
How do you apply to Nyssba?
Parents or legal guardians can be contacted directly to apply to the NYSSB. In addition, the Special Education Committee (CSE) in the student’s school district can also initiate the application. Our Admissions Coordinator is a guide who will provide support to the families throughout the process. The decision to send a child to NYSSB is made as a result of a joint meeting where parents, the NYSSB Multidisciplinary Team and the CSE of the home school district come together.Dec. You can visit the Admission Process page to learn more about our application process and download the application form.
Are there any Housing Programs for Students?
NYSSA offers students an exciting 5-day residential experience. Monday Sunday evening or Monday morning, students come to school and stay in the dormitories during the week. However, they return to their homes every weekend and on all public school holidays (for example, Columbus Day and Thanksgiving).
Does my child have to stay in the dormitory?
If you live within 50 miles of NYSSBA, your child can participate in our Daily Student program. In this program, your child will live at home every day, and your school district will transport your child to NYSSBA on a daily basis.
What will my child do in the summer?
NYSSBA successfully maintains a six-week summer program that continues throughout the standard school year. All our students have the opportunity to participate in this program.
Can I visit my child in the classroom or at the dormitory?
They will be very pleased with your visit. Please inform them in advance to arrange classroom visits. If you want to visit the dormitories, although you don’t need to call in advance, keep in mind that the students have busy schedules and you may want to check in advance to find out if they are in the dormitory at the time you plan to visit. They recommend that you contact by phone during the evening.
What if my child is registered with the NYSSB and we change our mind about placing him there?
Placement in NYSSA is completely optional. If you want to withdraw your child at any time, you just need to let us know. We are here to help you when you are transitioning to your school district at home.
Who pays for a child to go to NYSSB?
The first evaluation stage in the application process is funded by the State of New York. Education, accommodation services and transportation expenses are covered by the school district and resource district at the time of application, as well as by the New York State Department of Education. Student families are never charged fees.
Does NYSSB conduct assessments of students who are not interested in applying there?
These services and opportunities are not offered to children who do not apply to school or do not attend school.
What number can I call to talk to someone about NYSSB?
You can contact Bethany Burgess by calling 1-877-NYSSFTB (1-877-697-7382) or 214, one of the toll-free numbers.He will be happy to provide you with more information about the programs, arrange a tour or answer your questions.As of October 20, 2018, Bethany Burgess will be the right person for you to contact.