Admissions
Your Path to Enrollment at the Maryland School for the Blind
We’re here to support families, students, and school systems every step of the way through our collaborative admissions process.
Once a student is referred to MSB by their local county IEP team, the Admissions Team initiates the application process by sending a full application packet to the IEP team and the student’s family. This application includes sections for both the parent/guardian and the LEA representative to complete.
Additional required documentation includes:
Current IEP
Recent assessments
Medical forms
Once all documentation is submitted, the student enters our formal review process.
01
Enrollment Recommended
All documentation is complete. MSB will coordinate with the county to schedule an enrollment date.
02
Deferred Decision
We require more information or documentation before we can make a decision.
03
Enrollment Not Recommended
This may occur when:
Insufficient data supports MSB as the Least Restrictive Environment.
The student’s vision needs do not meet criteria for MSB placement.
The student has additional needs that cannot be met at MSB.
How to make a referral for Special Education Services
Start a Referral
Step 1
A parent/guardian makes a written referral at the public school the child is currently attending.
Step 2
The special education team at the school meets with the guardian and, if the team agrees, requests assessments.
Step 3
For special education services based on a visual impairment, eligibility is not based on a doctor’s recommendation or documentation, but rather on how the visual impairment impacts the student’s education. A Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI) will be called in to assess the student and make recommendations. Some children only require accommodations and modifications to the classroom environment, while others will require special education services.
Step 4
The IEP (Individualized Education Plan) team will meet to discuss the findings and make recommendations.
Step 5
If the student begins to receive services through an IEP, they will be provided with a TVI in their current school. This is the ideal situation that most students benefit from.
Step 6
If the student receives special education services through an IEP in their school and this is not sufficient to meet their vision needs and allow them to access their education, the IEP team should meet and make a referral to the Maryland School for the Blind. This should be based on data and after trying multiple options of service delivery, keeping in mind that MSB is a more restrictive placement.
Admissions FAQ
How much does it cost to send a child to MSB?
Can I transfer my child to your school?
Do you have academic students at MSB?
Do students reside on campus all year and on weekends?
Do students Can parents visit their children in the evenings? on campus all year and on weekends?
Can parents of prospective students visit MSB for an admissions tour?
The Maryland School for the Blind
3501 Taylor Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21236
Get Directions
(410) 444 - 5000 (Main)
(410) 319 - 5700 (Fax)
(410) 779 - 4966 (Health Center)
(410) 779 - 4778 (Health Center Fax)
© The Maryland School for the Blind
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