Public Notice

Notice: The IESDB Board of DirectorsRegular Board meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, March 12th, has been cancelled. A notice will be provided her when it is rescheduled.

Welcome to Our Site

Brian Darcy, Agency Administrator

Dear Students, Families, and Staff, Stakeholders and Community partners,

Welcome back to another exciting year at the Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind! As we embark on this new academic journey, I am filled with immense pride and optimism for the exceptional opportunities that lie ahead. Our commitment to providing an inclusive and empowering education remains unwavering. Our dedicated educators, support staff, and administrators have spent countless hours preparing for this moment – a moment that symbolizes not just a return to school, but a return to growth, learning, and community.

For our students who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or low vision, this is a place where your unique talents are celebrated, and your dreams are nurtured. We understand that every individual's path is different, and we are here to guide and support you every step of the way to achieve your potential. Together, we will conquer challenges, discover new strengths, and achieve remarkable feats. Families, you are an integral part of our school community. Your partnership, insights, and involvement contribute significantly to the success of our students. We encourage open communication and collaboration to ensure that each student's needs are met comprehensively and effectively. As we navigate the current educational landscape, we remain adaptable and resourceful. We have integrated the latest technologies and teaching methodologies to enhance the learning experience, both in-person and through distance education. The partnerships we have developed only enhance the educational services we provide. Our goal is to provide a safe and conducive environment for all students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

In my 13 years in this position, I never tire of witnessing the growth of our students as they explore new subjects, engage in meaningful discussions, and form lasting friendships. Let us embrace the spirit of curiosity, empathy, and determination that defines our small community. I am also thrilled to highlight the important role of our Outreach Services. These services extend beyond the walls of our school and into local communities, into local school districts, and the sanctity of homes, ensuring that the valuable resources and support we offer are accessible to as many students and families as possible. Our commitment to outreach reflects our belief in the transformative power of education, empowerment, and inclusion.

On behalf of the entire Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind family, I extend a warm welcome to all – returning students, new students, families, and staff. Let us make this academic year one of resilience, learning, and joy. Here's to a successful and enriching school year! Cheers!

pre-school children posing in front of elephant statue

The IESDB Outreach Program offers preschool and community-based options for deaf or hard of hearing (D/HH) and blind or visually impaired (B/VI) children ages of 3 -5 in the state of Idaho. The D/HH programs offer total communication (sign language and speech) and auditory-oral (aural and speech) choices:

  • Vocabulary and language development.
  • Introduction to basic concepts.
  • Kindergarten readiness.
  • Listening activities, sensory, and social skills.

The B/VI program focuses on similar goals in addition to:

  • Orientation and Mobility
  • Pre-Braille activities

There are several preschool and community-based centers in Idaho where we are serving 8 to 10+ children. Staff in our preschool centers and community-based includes at least one teacher and a teaching assistant. For more information, please contact the regional preschool centers.

Region 1, Coeur d'Alene

  • Cortney Peters, Total Communication

Region 4, Ponderosa Elementary School, Meridian

  • Jessica Waldbillg, Total Communication
  • Joy Kane and Julie Tobin, Listening and Spoken Language

Region 5, ISDB Campus, Gooding

  • Valerie McCabe, Total Communication
  • Jodie Hamilton, Special Needs
  • Judi Lethlean, B/VI

Region 6 - ISU Campus, Pocatello

  • Donna Wesen, Total Communication