In a world often defined by sight, how do we ensure those who experience the world differently are not only seen but empowered? Perkins School for the Blind, a global leader in education and services, has dedicated nearly two centuries to precisely this mission, offering a beacon of hope and opportunity for children and young adults with visual impairments and multiple disabilities.
As an international non-governmental organization (NGO), Perkins School for the Blind operates as a tireless innovator, continuously adapting to address the evolving needs of its communities, students, and families. They offer a comprehensive continuum of services that extends from birth through age 22, ensuring that individuals with a range of conditions, including visual impairments, Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), deafblindness, and CHARGE syndrome, receive the support and education they deserve. Established in 1829 by Samuel Gridley Howe, the school's rich history is intertwined with groundbreaking programs, impactful innovations, and a global reach that has transformed the landscape of education and accessibility.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of Institution | Perkins School for the Blind |
| Founded | 1829 |
| Location | Watertown, MA, USA |
| Mission | To help children with disabilities find their place in the world through educational services, accessibility, professional development, and innovation. |
| Services Offered | Educational programs, residential programs, individualized instruction, transition services, teacher training, assistive technology, CVI programs, and more. |
| Notable Alumni/Connections | Helen Keller, Anne Sullivan |
| Key Programs | CVI Certificate Program, Howe Innovation Center, International Programs |
| Website | Perkins School for the Blind Official Website |
Perkins School for the Blind's commitment extends far beyond the walls of its historic campus in Watertown, Massachusetts. The institution offers a diverse array of programs and services designed to cater to the needs of children and young adults with multiple disabilities and their families across the globe. This includes vital support for the educators, professionals, and researchers dedicated to advancing their well-being. Day and residential programs provide individualized instruction and transition services, preparing students for successful and independent lives. The school's curriculum is rooted in the expanded core curriculum, ensuring a holistic approach to education that addresses the unique needs of each student.
A peek into the past reveals the enduring spirit of Perkins. A classroom scene from around 1890 illustrates the schools dedication to creating a bright and stimulating learning environment. Students, seated in a circle potentially around a rabbit and working at desks, are bathed in natural light streaming through large windows. This setting, enhanced by plants, a piano, and cabinets brimming with equipment, exemplifies the school's commitment to providing a rich and engaging experience for its students.
At the heart of Perkins is the belief that every child deserves to find their place in the world. To achieve this, Perkins offers a spectrum of services, from specialized educational programs to innovative initiatives. The school's impact is evident in the lives of its students, families, and staff, who together, embody a world where everyone belongs. They offer equitable educational and engaging learning opportunities for every student. Their experts individualize programs for students of all abilities and provide customized instruction in academics, independent living, assistive technology, vocational training, and more.
The school's expertise also extends to critical areas like Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI), a leading cause of childhood blindness. The Perkins CVI Certificate Program, offered through Perkins Academy, equips professionals with in-depth knowledge of CVI, including its definition, prevalence, associated conditions, and the sixteen visual behaviors linked to this condition. They developed CVI now fosters community and shared connection, and empowers families with the CVI knowledge, guidance, and tools you and your child need to succeed.
The NECO Center for Eye Care at Perkins School for the Blind further contributes to the school's mission by providing excellence in clinical eye care. They offer support and training for optimal use of functional vision within a caring, compassionate environment focused on each patient's individual needs.
The impact of Perkins is felt not just within its walls but extends globally. The school's international programs and partnerships work to disseminate knowledge, resources, and best practices in the field of blindness education and support. Their mission also extends to supporting the educators, professionals, and researchers who support them.
The historical significance of Perkins is preserved through its archives, which house some of the most important collections of photographs, documents, tactile objects, and audio-visual materials in the world. This archive serves as a testament to the school's enduring legacy and its commitment to advancing the field.
The practical aspects of navigating the world with a visual impairment are also addressed. The experience of Katie, a legally blind and hard of hearing student, walking on the Perkins campus, illustrates the importance of orientation and mobility training. Her instructor, Donna, emphasizes the need for a wide swing with her cane, a simple yet crucial technique for safe and independent movement.
The school also provides insights into specialized areas. High school reading rates for longer passages (where eye fatigue is often an issue) has been informally stated to be 75 words or less.
For those seeking admission or wishing to learn more, Perkins offers a streamlined application process, requiring personal, educational, medical, and vision information. In essence, Perkins School for the Blind is more than just a school; it is a global beacon of hope, innovation, and empowerment for individuals with visual impairments and multiple disabilities. It stands as a testament to the power of education, accessibility, and a world where everyone truly belongs.
For fundraising and promotional events, Perkins School for the Blind maintains a strict naming protocol to comply with legal requirements. While events can be "benefiting Perkins School for the Blind," the school's name cannot be used as the primary identifier of the event. This ensures clarity and compliance with organizational guidelines.
Several individuals have contributed significantly to Perkins School for the Blind's mission. For example, Ashley's transition from a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) role to Assistant Education Director in the deafblind school is indicative of the opportunities for professional development at the school.
Perkins School for the Blind invites everyone to join them in building a world of belonging. Whether through contributing to their programs, participating in training, or advocating for accessibility, there are numerous ways to support their vital work. They have curated several pages on various social media platforms, and a website which provides comprehensive information. These platforms are: Charity Navigator, Candid, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Perkins School for the Blind Facebook page, Perkins School for the Blind LinkedIn page, Perkins School for the Blind Twitter page, Perkins School for the Blind YouTube page.
To further expand their reach and share their expertise, Perkins actively collaborates with organizations and institutions. For example, they offer a CVI training program.
