Program areas at Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children
Specialized educational, therapeutic and support services are provided to approximately 200 enrolled students, who in addition to visual impairment, evidence additional significant health challenges. Residential programming is provided to around 20 students who live in outlying districts. The School is divided into three curriculum programs: primary, middle and secondary. Small class sizes of no more than eight students ensure students receive the individualized attention and instruction necessary to reach their fullest potential. Classroom teams consist of a case manager, certified teacher of the visually impaired, occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech language pathologist, orientation and mobility instructor, behavior support specialist, nurse and instructional aides.
"a child's view: vision in extraordinary ways" early childhood center provides comprehensive childcare for Children with or without visual impairments from the ages of six weeks to five years. This innovative program is designed to benefit all Children, regardless of their ability level or sensory impairments. Accredited by the national association for the education of young Children, a child's view is a high quality and innovative, childcare program.
The outreach program provides vital information, consultation and direct services to hundreds of visually impaired students, agencies, School districts, intermediate units and families throughout the region. The program is dedicated to helping parents and educators make real, tangible impact in the quality of education of students with visual impairment throughout Western Pennsylvania.
Other program services consist of the extended School year program, lavi program, and title i program. The extended School year program is a three-week summer program. All students who attend the on-campus school-age program are eligible for esy. "lavi: learning adventures for the visually impaired" is a licensed adult training facility (atf)for graduates of the wpsbc ages 21 to 59. The program runs year-round at our oakland campus. Occupational therapists, physical therapists and speech language pathologies are available to provide related service consultations and the use of assistive technology devices. Throughout the day lavi participants engage in a variety of instructional, vocational and recreational activities adapted to maximize participation.