Public Notice

Notice: The IESDB Board of Directors will be holding a Special Board Meeting Tuesday, April 29th at 10:00 am.

Welcome to Our Site

Brian Darcy, Agency Administrator

As the winter season blankets Idaho with its serene beauty, I am delighted to welcome you to a new chapter at the Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind. This time of year reminds us of the warmth found in community and the strength we gain when we come together, even amidst the chill of the season.

Winter is a time of reflection and renewal—a perfect opportunity to celebrate the progress we’ve made and to set our sights on the goals ahead. For our students who are Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or have low vision, this season offers a chance to embrace learning with fresh energy, discover new strengths, and share in the joy of achievements, big and small. Families, your unwavering support remains the foundation of our students' success. We cherish your involvement and invite you to continue walking this journey with us, hand in hand. To our staff, your dedication is the flame that keeps our community thriving. Your creativity and commitment bring light to our students’ paths and inspire them to reach new heights.

This winter, we are excited to expand opportunities both within our classrooms and through our Outreach Services, ensuring that every student, no matter where they are, has access to the resources and encouragement needed to thrive. Whether it’s exploring new technologies, fostering social connections, or deepening academic knowledge, we are steadfast in our mission to empower every learner. Let’s embrace this winter as a season of growth and unity. Like the snowflakes that join to create a beautiful landscape, our collective efforts make our school a place where every student’s potential can shine brightly.

On behalf of the entire Idaho Educational Services for the Deaf and the Blind community, I wish you a joyful, productive, and inspiring winter season. Together, we’ll make this a time of resilience, learning, and celebration.

Warmest regards,

Brian Darcy, Administrator

Early Childhood Intervention

consultant and toddler doing activity

The IESDB Outreach Program provides early intervention services at no cost to the families of birth to three with a permanent hearing and/or vision loss who reside in the state of Idaho. The IESDB Educational Specialists work side-by-side with parents to screen, assess, and provide parent education and support services. They assist parents as diagnosis and treatment options are explored

Our Educational Specialists are highly educated professionals who partner with parents and other team members to:

  1. Establish a stimulating home learning environment.
  2. Facilitate linkage with parents and professionals.
  3. Maximize each child’s use of residual audition, sight, tactile, and sensory skills.
  4. Access and learn to use assistive technology devices.
  5. Promote age appropriate skill development in all domains.

These early intervention services are provided in the child’s natural environment, including their home, community, and other culturally relevant settings. The IESDB Educational Specialists work with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare - Infant Toddler Program (DHW-ITP) to promote family-oriented services through:

  1. Assessments and support in various developmental areas
  2. Individualized family service plans (IFSP)
  3. Weekly, bi-monthly or monthly home visits
This partnership ensures each child is provided the assistance needed for a successful transition to the most appropriate preschool program available to optimize the child’s capabilities. The preschool placement is an IEP team decision that supports the child’s communication and academic needs.