West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind

Residential Program

Building Confident Independent Young People in a Safe Environment

Mission:

In the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind residential program, students and staff will:

1. Demonstrate patience and respect for each other through language, actions, and attitude

2. Solve problems together

3. Advocate effectively for themselves as individuals with vision or hearing losses who have unique needs

4. Create a culture that anticipates and fosters independence and self-determination

5. Recognize and accept the logical consequences that come with independent decision making

6. Establish a positive laughter-filled environment where creativity is fostered and independent living skills are promoted

7. Support its residents as they grow to be independent adults with the skills to thrive in the community and world of their choice

In the residential setting, all participants accept the need for communication of all kinds.  Staff will understand that for a resident to grow, he or she must acquire a means of communication and feel comfortable using it.  All forms of communication, including ASL, English, Braille, and tactile/picture identification are accepted and practiced by all. Students and staff will learn the value of listening to one another.  They will be flexible and work together in creating effective solutions to problems.  Staff will work to understand residents’ untapped potential and create individualized experiences to promote lifelong learning and happiness.