Maryland School for the Blind

The Early Learning Program provides instruction for children with visual impairment ages birth to five years, within two programs; Infants & Toddlers, and the center-based programs including both Preschool and Kindergarten. 

The Preschool and Kindergarten program serves children, ages three through five years of age.  The purpose of the program is to promote readiness for school-age programs in the most integrative setting possible. Typically developing students, without disabilities, are enrolled in each class and are integral to providing an engaging and challenging early learning program for all students.  Activities and materials from the curriculum are modified to meet the Maryland Early Learning Standards and support the development and learning of typical peers alongside blind and low-vision students. The program is licensed through the Office of Child Care.

MSB Academic Programs serve students who are on an academic diploma track. Students also receive direct instruction in functional academic skills as well as in the areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum for students who are blind or visually impaired.  The program is designed to address specific skill needs of students, address learning issues and facilitate a successful return to their local school system. The General Academic Program follows an academic curriculum based on the Maryland College and Career Ready Standards.

For students who are not on a diploma track, MSB provides tailored programs to meet their educational and social needs.  Vocational training is emphasized.  Academic instruction is presented at a student's instructional level and is based on significantly modified content standards.  Students also receive instruction in the content areas of the expanded core curriculum for blind and low-vision learners. For students with severe and profound disabilities, academic programs often have an emphasis on functional life skills, including communication, and a strong multi-sensory approach to learning.

The Unique Learning System based on Common Core standards is used.  Students also receive instruction in content areas of the expanded core curriculum for blind and low-vision learners.  The educational program takes into consideration the complex health and physical needs of each student while developing age-appropriate adaptive skills to increase independence. This program also includes students with dual sensory impairments of both hearing and vision.