As we wrap up the 2024–2025 school year, enjoy this glimpse into the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind's (WVSDB) rich history, a vintage black-and-white photo of students and staff getting ready for homegoing. 🚌 Here’s to the memories we’ve made this year and to the many more to come. We can’t wait to welcome our students back in the Fall! 🍂 #WVSDBHistory #WVSDB #EndOfYear
1 day ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A black and white photo of students and staff members standing in front of a large bus.
The Blue and Gold Building has been undergoing a remarkable transformation! 💙💛 As the oldest building on the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind's (WVSDB) campus, it holds decades of history, and now, it's stepping into the future. Opening Fall 2025, the renovated building will feature: ☕ Appalachia Provisions Café 💼 Updated Conference Rooms 🎓 A Brand-New Student Center Honoring our legacy while creating space for what’s next. 🐻 #CampusUpdates #WVSDB #ModernMeetsTradition
3 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Blue and Gold Building.
The front of the newly renovated Blue and Gold Building.
A long hallway inside the Blue and Gold Building featuring dark flooring and white walls.
The cafe kitchen featuring white counter tops and light brown-colored cabinets.
Conference Room. Dark blue and gray carpet with a gold-colored wall on the far side of the room.
Tables and chairs set up in the new student center. Dark blue and gray flooring with gold and blue-colored ceiling tiles.
A Wild Day of Learning! 🐾 Our elementary students had a wonderful time visiting the zoo! They loved getting up close with animals, asking questions, and learning new facts about creatures big and small. 🐢 Thank you to our amazing staff and chaperones for making this experience possible. 💛 #HandsOnLearning #WVSDB #ZooDayAdventures
4 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A female student and a male student in a wheelchair are side-by-side one another as they smile for the camera.
A male student wearing a blue hat and wearing sunglasses leans down to touch a brown goat.
Three male students stand side-by-side one another as they look into the animal exhibit.
A female nurse leans down next to a male student in a wheelchair.
A male student wearing a black shirt and khaki pants stands in front of some greenery.
A female student with a pink bow in her hair looks out into a peacock exhibit.
As of June 10, 2025, the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind are accepting applications for the following vacancies: Professional Interpreter I, II Professional Interpreter I, II - Residential Program (eve/wknd hrs) Substitute General Maintenance/Plumber II Substitute LPN To apply, please visit - https://www.applitrack.com/wvde/onlineapp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&applitrackclient=47369
4 days ago, Sondra McKenery
Hand over Braille book with We Are Hiring title and WVSDB logo
Our elementary students are helping our Pollinator Garden grow! 🌼 They’ve been planting flowers, learning about pollinators like bees and butterflies, and having fun getting their hands in the dirt. 🌿 We’re so proud of their hard work and love for nature! 💛 #PollinatorGarden #WVSDB #HandsOnLearning
8 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A male student kneels down in the green pollinator garden.
A female student smiles for the camera as she kneels down in the greenery of the pollinator garden.
A male student in a wheelchair holds a rake.
A male student wearing a white helmet on his head sits in the green grass surrounded by packets of seeds.
A male student stands with his white cane in one hand and holding green grass in the other.
A female student kneels down to scoop dirt while a male student beside her holds a gardening tool full of dirt.
A male student kneels down in the green pollinator garden.
A female student smiles for the camera while proudly holding up a pack of seeds.
A male student holds a green bucket with greenery in the inside.
Congratulations to Ana Collins on her acceptance into the Governor’s School for Tourism! 🌟 Ana is a shining example of how Career and Technical Education (CTE) opens doors. As a student in our Culinary/Hospitality Academy, she’s gaining hands-on experience that prepares her for real-world success. 🍽️ This summer, Ana will take her learning even further as she explores West Virginia’s tourism industry. 🏕️ We’re incredibly proud of her and can’t wait to see how this opportunity shapes her journey! 🤩 #CTEWorks #WVSDB #GovernorSchoolForTourism
10 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Audrianna Collins. A female student wearing a red and black plaid flannel poses in front of a dark blue backdrop.
Wrapping Up the 2024–2025 Athletics Season! 🌟 Our athletes finished strong at the Eastern Athletic Association for the Blind (EAAB) Track Tournament hosted by the Maryland School for the Blind (MSB)! A huge thank you to our coaches, staff, families, and fans for your support throughout the year. We’re proud of all our student-athletes and the milestones they’ve achieved! 🏆 We can’t wait to see what the 2025–2026 athletics season brings! 🐻 #WVSDBAthletics #WVSDB #LetsGoBlackBears
11 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A male athlete wearing a blue and gold-colored uniform jumps into a sand pit.
Group photo of male and female track athletes and coaches dressed in blue and gold-colored attire.
Two male athletes wearing blue and gold-colored track uniforms run side-by-side on a red-colored track.
A male athlete wearing a blue and gold-colored uniform jumps into a sand pit.
A male raises his arms to get athletes' attention. Athletes line up to begin their race.
As of June 3, 2025, the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind are accepting applications for the following opportunities: Professional Interpreter I, II - Residential Program (eve/wknd hrs) Substitute General Maintenance/Plumber II Professional Interpreter I, II Substitute LPN To apply for any of the positions listed above, please visit - https://www.applitrack.com/wvde/onlineapp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&applitrackclient=47369
11 days ago, Sondra McKenery
Picture of a bear w WVSDB Logo and Become a Black Bear - Apply Now!
The waterline has been repaired and water has been restored to the residence hall.
12 days ago, Christine Lewis
There was a water main break on campus.  The break is currently affecting the residence hall.  All other buildings have water. It is being repaired.  All residents are safe and currently outside.
12 days ago, Christine Lewis
To wrap up graduation season, our Residential Life staff hosted a special picnic for our seniors to celebrate with friends and family! 🎓 Huge congratulations to the Class of 2025, we’re so proud of you and can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll accomplish! #Classof2025 #WVSDB #GraduationCelebration
15 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Female students are seated at a rectangular shaped table. They are looking at the camera.
A male and female Residential Care Specialist are at the front of the room beside a table filled with treats for the seniors
Male and female seniors are standing side by side in front of a table with a large cake sitting on the top.
A blue and yellow, rectangle-shaped cake that says “Congratulations Class of 2025"
Students and staff seated at a rectangular shaped table enjoy their meals
Students and staff seated at a rectangular-shaped table enjoy their meals.
Families of students seated at a table while they smile for the camera.
Students and staff seated at a rectangular table enjoying their meals.
Students and staff seated at a rectangular table while they mingle and enjoy their meals.
It's Graduation Day at the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (WVSDB) 🎓 Join us live as we celebrate our incredible students during our Signing Day and Graduation Ceremonies, streaming on Facebook Live and Zoom! Tap the links below to be part of the celebration! ⬇️⬇️⬇️ ➡️Signing Day Ceremony at 10:00 A.M. Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84715621063?pwd=gNz1oLKbzmikeUTpjzzjoicY2mdldI.1 Meeting ID: 847 1562 1063 Passcode: h2Xgfj ➡️Graduation Ceremony at 2:00 P.M. Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84733779540?pwd=RPbWl3JOua7WSSxkazXbGdGynFbINz.1 Meeting ID: 847 3377 9540 Passcode: GX1vxf #GraduationDay #WVSDB #SigningDay
17 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Congratulations to the Class of 2025! 🎓 You’ve worked hard, overcome challenges, and reached an important milestone. As you step into the next chapter of your journey, remember this: WVSDB will always be your home, a place where you belong, no matter what. 💛💙 We are proud of all you have accomplished and can’t wait to see the amazing things you’ll do next. 🌟 #ClassOf2025 #WVSDB #GraduationDay
17 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
2025 Graduates. Six graduates photos in circular frames side by side. The phrase "We are so Proud of You" is in white-colored font above the photos. "Congratulations on Your Graduation" is in gold-colored font below the graduates photos. The WVSDB Black Bear logo is at the bottom center.
Senior Shoutout: Connie Williamson! 🎓 Connie has made the most of her journey at WVSDB, and we couldn’t be prouder! Throughout her time here, she was a standout in our Business Enterprise Academy, where she gained valuable experience in entrepreneurship and marketing. 🖥️ Outside the classroom, Connie’s kind heart and uplifting spirit truly stood out. 💛 We’re so proud of you, Connie. The future is yours! 🌟 #SeniorShoutout #WVSDB #2025Graduate
17 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Connie Williamson. A female student wearing a navy-colored graduation cap and gown smiles for the camera in front of a dark, blue backdrop. The phrase "Congratulations Connie Williamson, Class of 2025" is in black-colored font to the right of her photo. The WVSDB Black Bear logo is in the lower right-hand corner.
Huge congratulations to Rachelle, a senior at West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (WVSDB), who recently graduated from the Hampshire High School (HHS) Nursing Career and Technical Education (CTE) program! 👏 CTE programs like this are so important because they give students real-world skills and hands-on experience to jumpstart their futures. 🌟 Thanks to this valuable partnership, Rachelle is well on her way to a successful career in healthcare! 🏥 #CTE #WVSDB #CareerandTechnicalEducation
17 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A female student with dark, curly hair wearing a white dress with a navy-colored stole around her neck smiles for the camera while holding up a document that says "HHS Clinicals Class of 2025."
A female with dark hair and glasses smiles proudly at a female student wearing a white dress. They are standing on a stage. There is a podium and flowers to the left of them.
A female wearing a dark blazer puts a dark, navy-colored stole around a female wearing a white dress.
A female wearing a dark colored blazer hugs a female wearing a white dress. They are standing on a stage with a podium to the left of them.
Senior Shoutout: Isabella "Bella" Patterson! 🎓 Bella has had an incredible senior year! She represented WVSDB on the Girls Goalball team, was actively involved in our EmpowerEd Academy, and successfully balanced high school with college through dual enrollment. 📚 After graduation, Bella will continue her journey with us through the Career Academy for Postgraduates (CAP) Program while staying dual-enrolled at Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College. We’re so proud of you, Bella! Keep reaching for the stars! 🌟 #SeniorShoutout #WVSDB #2025Graduate
18 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Isabella Patterson. A female student dressed in a navy-colored graduation cap and gown smiles for the camera in front of a dark, blue backdrop. The phrase "Congratulations Isabella Patterson, Class of 2025" is in black-colored font to the right of her photo. The WVSDB Black Bear logo is in the bottom right-hand corner.
As of May 27, 2025, the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind are accepting applications for the following opportunities: Professional Interpreter I, II - Residential Program (eve/wknd hrs) Substitute Cook III Substitute General Maintenance/Carpenter II Substitute General Maintenance/Groundsman Substitute General Maintenance/Locksmith Substitute General Maintenance/Plumber II Substitute LPN To apply for any of the positions listed above, please visit - https://www.applitrack.com/wvde/onlineapp/default.aspx?choosedistrict=true&applitrackclient=47369
18 days ago, Sondra McKenery
Aerial view of campus with We Are Hiring - Join Now and school logo
May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, and there's no better time to celebrate our incredible Audiologist, Dr. Melanie Ashworth! 👂 Dr. Ashworth’s journey in Audiology began with a bachelor’s degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology (1989) and a master’s degree in Audiology (1991), both from West Virginia University (WVU). In 1992, she joined the West Virginia Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (WVSDB) as a staff Audiologist and has served Deaf/ Hard of Hearing (DHH) students, families, and educators ever since. 🌟 In 2007, she completed her Doctor of Audiology degree from Salus University, and claims it came with a messy, completely official doctor’s signature! 🖋️ Outside of her professional life, Dr. Ashworth is a Charleston native and the 9th of 10 siblings. She’s a proud aunt to 22 nieces and nephews and 15 great-nieces and nephews (with two more on the way!). Her happy place? Fall weekends in Morgantown surrounded by family, friends, and Mountaineer football! 🏈 Thank you, Dr. Ashworth, for over 30 years of service and for being a true champion for the students of West Virginia! 💛💙 #NationalSpeechLanguageHearingMonth #WVSDB #AudiologistAppreciation
21 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
Dr. Melanie Ashworth. A female with shoulder-length blonde hair and glasses smiles for the camera proudly in front of a gray backdrop. She is wearing a dark blue floral top and a navy cardigan over top.
West Virginia Tourism in Action! ⛰️ Students from Appalachia Provisions, our Culinary/Hospitality Academy, recently explored the heart of #AlmostHeaven in the Thomas/Davis area of West Virginia! From hiking scenic trails and dining at local favorites to shopping at small businesses, students gained a firsthand look at how WV tourism supports communities and fuels careers in hospitality. 🍽️ This experience wasn’t just about exploring new places, it was about discovering how their future roles in culinary and hospitality can help share the best of West Virginia with the world. 🌎 #AlmostHeaven #WVSDB #WVTourism
22 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A group of students and a male instructor pose for a "selfie" in front of waterfalls in the background.
A group of students and a male instructor stand side by side on a wooden structure. There are green mountains and a clear blue sky in the background.
A female student with red hair climbs on a climbing rock exhibit.
Three females pose for a "selfie."
Students and a male instructor walk on a hiking path in the middle of the wilderness.
Students and a male instructor climb on rocks.
A male student is seated between large rocks.
A male student assists a female student with climbing on the rocks.
Students and a male instructor stand side by side on a wooden walking structure with green wilderness in the background.
🌟Awards Program Highlights! 🌟 We are so proud of all our students who have thrived this school year! 🤩 Your dedication to academics and athletics has truly stood out, and we celebrated your amazing achievements at our Awards Program. 📚 Your hard work and commitment inspire us all. 🏆 Keep shining and reaching for the stars! #StudentSuccess #WVSDB #StudentAchievement
22 days ago, Alyssa Hansrote
A group of students and two coaches stand together in a group. A male student proudly holds up a large trophy with a golden soccer ball.
Three male students and a male instructor stand side by side. The male students hold up their certificates.
Students standing together in a group. They are all wearing medal awards around their neck.
Two female students and a male teacher stand side by side smiling for the camera. The two female students hold up their certificates.
Three male students and a male coach stand in a group holding up a large golden trophy.
Students stand in a line wearing their medals proudly. Two males on the right-hand side hold up the "I love you" sign in ASL.
Students standing in a group proudly hold up their certificates.
Two male and two female students stand in a group holding up their awards.
Students standing in a group and holding up their trophies.
Students are in a line posing for the camera and holding up their small golden trophies.