The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind

💡 Building Partnerships, Unlocking Potential! 💡 Today, our very own Karen Kaminski-Joyner (IEP Coordinator) and Julie Saum (Family Engagement Specialist) are representing VSDB at the PEATC 2025 Family Engagement Summit: The Power of Partnerships – Unlocking Student Potential Through Connection and Systems of Support. This dynamic event, hosted by the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center and the Virginia Department of Education, brings together educators, families, and community leaders from across the state to share innovative ideas, strengthen school-family partnerships, and explore strategies that help every student thrive. Karen and Julie are learning, networking, and bringing back fresh ideas to continue building strong school-family partnerships here at VSDB — because when families and schools work together, students shine brighter! ✨ We can’t wait to see how their takeaways will help us continue building bridges between school, home, and the wider community! #FamilyEngagement #PEATC #StudentSuccess #VSDBPreparingStudentsForLife #TogetherWeEmpower

9 days ago, VSDB

close-up of two printed booklets and a pen on a table. One booklet is titled “Critical Decision Points for Families of Children with Disabilities,” and the other reads “2025 Family Engagement Summit” with the event agenda and speaker photos.

Two smiling women stand in front of a large presentation screen that reads “Welcome to the 2025 Family Engagement Summit: The Power of Partnerships – Unlocking Student Potential Through Connection and Systems of Support,”

🌟 Day 2 of the Opening Doors: Unlocking Potential Conference! 🌟

We wrapped up an incredible two-day journey of learning, connection, and collaboration. Last night’s Roundtable Session featured powerful insights from a diverse panel (including a parent of one of our students and our new Interim Superintendent), and today’s closing plenary is bringing it all home with thought-provoking conversations about language access, student potential, and creative partnerships.

Thank you to all who presented, participated, and engaged—we’re feeling inspired and ready to carry these ideas forward into the new school year! 💙💡

#OpeningDoorsUnlockingPotential 2025 #VSDBStrong #DeafEd #FamilyEngagement #CollaborateToElevate #VSDBPreparingStudentsForLife #TogetherWeEmpower

19 days ago, VSDB

two screen captures of a presentation on Zoom. slides are on the left and the presenter and interpreter are shown on the right

photo of a laptop screen showing 7 participants on Zoom

🎈✨ We’re off to an inspiring start! ✨🎈

Many of our staff are participating in this week’s Opening Doors: Unlocking Potential virtual conference— Creative Partnerships to Elevate Success for students who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or DeafBlind.

We are thrilled to kick off both the conference and the school year with a powerful keynote from Jennifer Francisco, reminding us all how unlocking student potential opens doors to their futures. 💡💙

#OpeningDoors2025 #UnlockingPotential #VSDBStrong #ProfessionalDevelopment #PreparingStudentsForLife #TogetherWeEmpower

20 days ago, VSDB

Conference flyer and presentation slides from the Opening Doors: Unlocking Potential 2025 virtual conference. One slide explains how unlocking potential connects to Deaf Education, and another features a quote by Kathy Seligman. In the corner, Jennifer Francisco presents in ASL.

🎥✨ Welcome from Our Interim Superintendent!

We’re excited to share this special message from Charity Reedy Warigon, VSDB’s new Interim Superintendent! In this short video, she shares what makes VSDB such a remarkable place—from our incredible students to the passionate and dedicated team working across our campus. 💙❤️

Whether you’re a longtime member of the VSDB family or just getting to know us, take a moment to hear her hopes and vision for the year ahead. We’re looking forward to a meaningful, connected, and empowering school year—together!

📺 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/8yKp8yJOp4E

#VSDBStrong #BackToSchool #VSDBCommunity #PreparingStudentsforLife #TogetherWeEmpower

26 days ago, VSDB

Yesterday, our campus came back to life as staff reunited for Opening Day—the official kickoff to two weeks of training, reconnecting, and preparing to welcome our students back!

From hallway hugs to deep dives into professional learning, the energy and excitement for the year ahead were unmistakable. Whether it was teachers catching up, team members across departments sharing smiles, or staff soaking in new strategies—we're ready to make this year amazing!

Here’s to a strong start and an even stronger school year ahead! 💙

#OpeningDay #VSDBStrong #BackToSchool #TeamVSDB #PreparingStudentsforLife #VSDBPreparingStudentsforLife #TogetherWeEmpower #DeafEducation #BlindEducation #DeafBlindEducation

27 days ago, Julie Saum

three women standing together and smiling for the camera. they all have gray hair in a similar cut and are all wearing similar tops

one female staff watching the current presenter on stage. she smiles as she is engaged in the session

two staff, one female and one male, smile for the camera

two women smiling for the camera in the VSDB auditorium. several people are in the background also smiling

two women posing for the camera. one is making an excited face with her mouth wide open and the other is smiling

three women smiling for the camera while sitting in the VSDB auditorium

Good morning! VSDB is out and about again. Today we are set up at the Chesterfield Towne Center for ACBVA's Step Forward community resource fair. We will be here until 2:00. You will also see VSDB at the Grottoes Deaf Picnic today as well. Come see us at either location!!

about 1 month ago, VSDB

VSDB vendor table set up with VSDB “swag” in front of JC Penney inside the mall

📍 LOCATION UPDATE
The Family Activity Series in Harrisonburg tomorrow has been moved to the Dream Come True Playground, located at 1050 Neff Ave.

We’ll be there from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. — come hang out for as long or as short as you'd like!

Big thanks to the friend who let us know that the sprayground park will be closed for maintenance. We’re excited for some outdoor fun at our new spot and hope to see you there!

about 1 month ago, Julie Saum

Flyer for “Together We Explore: A VSDB Family Series” — a free summer family event in various parts of the state. Open to all Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students (ages 2–21) and their families. Activities include a story walk, scavenger hunt, and hands-on sensory fun. Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement

VSDB Public Safety Office Update-Chief, Charlie Coker and Lieutenant, Travis Painter (not pictured)
As some may remember in 2023 VSDB became aware of a legislative error which de-
authorized the VSDB Police Department. With support of our legislators and Governor,
legislation was passed and re-authorized the VSDB Police Department on July 1, 2025.
We are excited to announce both Chief Coker and Lieutenant Painter were sworn back
in as Police Officers. We are thankful for all of our officers and staff in our Public Safety
Office who maintain a safe and secure environment for our students, staff, and visitors!

about 1 month ago, VSDB

Chief, Charlie Coker standing in his police uniform in front of Main Hall

If you haven't joined us for one (or more!) of our Summer Family Activity Series events around the state, you have three more chances: Friday, July 11 - Hampton:- 2pm-5pm - Bluebird Gap Farm - 60 Pine Chapel Road, Hampton, VA 23669. Registration preferred, but not required: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Hampton Sunday, July 13 - Henrico: 2pm-5pm - Taylor Farm Park - 200 Whiteside Road, Sandston, VA 23150 Registration preferred, but not required: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Henrico Thursday, July 17 - Harrisonburg: 11am-2pm - Ralph Sampson Park Spraygrounds - 620 Simms Ave. Harrisonburg, VA 22802 Registration preferred, but not required: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Henrico

about 2 months ago, VSDB

VSDB welcomed alumni from the class of 1985 back to campus this weekend. Some of the attendees are pictured here on the steps of the Superintendent's House. Front row: Mizzy Roper, Theresa Roach, Charity Reedy Warigon, Kim Tyree, Dottie Chavis, and Mary Millner Back row: Scott Bush, Troy Stevenson, Tracy Parham, Mills Coke, Ernest Ray, and Mario Chavis.

about 2 months ago, VSDB

two rows of men and women standing in front of a historic brick home with granite chunk and stone steps

Our next stop in our Summer Family Activity Series is Hampton - on Friday, July 11. We will be at Bluebird Gap Farm at 60 Pine Chapel Road, Hampton, VA 23669 from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, visually impaired, and DeafBlind children (ages 2–21) and their families are invited to enjoy games, story walk, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on activities. 🗓 Friday, July 11, 2025 | 🕒 2–5 PM | 📍Bluebird Gap Farm at 60 Pine Chapel Road, Hampton, VA 23669 from 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement. Registration is preferred, but not required. Register here: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Hampton 📋 Save the dates for our upcoming events in other parts of the state: July 13 – Henrico - Taylor Farm Park (register here: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Henrico) July 17 – Harrisonburg - Ralph Sampson Park Spraygrounds (register here: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Harrisonburg) ✨ More information coming soon! [ID: A colorful flyer for “Together We Explore: VSDB Family Activity Series.” The top features bold text reading “Together We Explore!” and “VSDB Family Activity Series - Fairfax Edition.” A yellow kite is in the top right corner, floating in the sky. Below that, key event details are organized with clear icons and text: Play, learn, and connect with VSDB for hands-on, inclusive fun — open to all families of Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students statewide. When: Friday, July 11, 2:00–5:00 PM Where: Bluebird Gap Farm - 60 Pine Chapel Road, Hampton, VA 23669 What: Scavenger hunt, story walk, hands-on activities, sensory fun, and farm animals. Contact Us: Julie Saum, 540-324-8316, julie.saum@vsdb.k12.va.us Registration (preferred but not required): https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Hamptton The bottom of the flyer has cartoon depictions of four children standing in a grassy area.]

about 2 months ago, Julie Saum

Flyer for “Together We Explore: A VSDB Family Series” — a free summer family event in Hampton on Friday, July 11 from 2–5 PM at Bluebird Gap Farm. Open to all Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students (ages 2–21) and their families. Activities include a story walk, scavenger hunt, and hands-on sensory fun. Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement

Our amazing staff joined VDOE’s Content Teaching Academy for Sensory Disabilities at JMU and took on the challenge of making sandwiches during a DeafBlind simulation! This provided the perfect opportunity to gain insight into the sensory experiences many of our students navigate daily. By stepping into our students’ shoes, we can better understand how to support them and ensure we work to prepare students for life! #TogetherWeEmpower #GrowDoBecome

about 2 months ago, VSDB

Two people have their faces covered with a napkin held in place with a blindfold. They are at a table covered in a Disney Princess table cloth, and are attempting to make sandwiches with some jelly. In front of each of them is a paper plate with two slices of bread.

A woman in a floral shirt sits at a table. Her face is covered by a napkin that is held in place over her eyes with a blindfold. She is making a sandwich and holing a piece of bread covered in jelly with one hand while the other holds a butter knife.

A woman sits at a table covered in a pokemon tablecloth. Her face is covered by a napkin that is held in place over her eyes with a blindfold. She is attempting to make a sandwich, and has one finger in a jar of jelly. There are two slices of bread on a plate in front of her.

Join VSDB for a FREE family fun afternoon in Fairfax County! Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, visually impaired, and DeafBlind children (ages 2–21) and their families are invited to enjoy games, story time, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on activities. 🗓 Tuesday, June 24, 2025 | 🕒 2–5 PM | 📍Family Recreation Area at Franconia Park 6601 Telegraph Road Franconia, Virginia. Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement. Registration is preferred, but not required. Register here: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Fairfax *Please note that this event will be held at Franconia Park, which does have a water play area. Please bring appropriate clothing if you plan to play in that area.* 📋 Save the dates for our upcoming events in other parts of the state: - July 11 – Hampton - Bluebird Gap Farm, July 13 – Henrico - Taylor Farm Park, July 17 – TBD - Rockingham or Rockbridge area.✨ More information coming soon! [ID: A colorful flyer for “Together We Explore: VSDB Family Activity Series.” The top features bold text reading “Together We Explore!” and “VSDB Family Activity Series - Fairfax Edition.” A yellow kite is in the top right corner, floating in the sky. Below that, key event details are organized with clear icons and text: Play, learn, and connect with VSDB for hands-on, inclusive fun — open to all families of Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students statewide. When: Tuesday, June 24, 2:00–5:00 PM Where: Family Recreation Area at Franconia Park 6601 Telegraph Road Franconia, Virginia What: Scavenger hunt, story walk, hands-on activities, sensory fun, and spray park. Contact Us: Julie Saum, 540-324-8316, julie.saum@vsdb.k12.va.us Registration (preferred but not required): https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Fairfax The bottom of the flyer has cartoon depictions of four children standing in a grassy area.]

about 2 months ago, VSDB

Flyer for “Together We Explore: A VSDB Family Series” — a free summer family event in Fairfax on Tuesday, June 24 from 2–5 PM at Montgomery Hall Park. Open to all Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students (ages 2–21) and their families. Activities include a story walk, scavenger hunt, and hands-on sensory fun. Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement

Join VSDB for a FREE family fun afternoon in Staunton! Deaf, hard of hearing, blind, visually impaired, and DeafBlind children (ages 2–21) and their families are invited to enjoy games, story time, a scavenger hunt, and hands-on activities. 🗓 Monday, June 16, 2025 | 🕒 3–6 PM | 📍 Rotary Pavilion, Montgomery Hall Park, Staunton Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement. Registration is preferred, but not required. Register here: https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Staunton 📋 Save the dates for our upcoming events in other parts of the state: - Tuesday, June 24 - Northern Virginia area - Sunday, July 6 or Friday, July 11 (TBD)- Hampton Roads area - Sunday, June 13 - Central Virginia area - Thursday, June 17 - Rockingham area ✨more information coming soon! [ID: A colorful flyer for “Together We Explore: VSDB Family Activity Series.” The top features bold text reading “Together We Explore!” and “VSDB Family Activity Series.” A yellow kite is in the top right corner, floating in the sky. Below that, key event details are organized with clear icons and text: Play, learn, and connect with VSDB for hands-on, inclusive fun — open to all families of Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students statewide. When: Monday, June 16, 3:00–6:00 PM Where: Rotary Pavilion at Montgomery Hall Park, 1000 Montgomery Ave, Staunton, VA 24401 What: Scavenger hunt, story walk, hands-on activities, and sensory fun Contact Us: Julie Saum, 540-332-9015, julie.saum@vsdb.k12.va.us Registration (preferred but not required): https://bit.ly/VSDB_Summer_Series_Staunton The bottom of the flyer has cartoon depictions of four children standing in a grassy area.]

2 months ago, VSDB

Flyer for “Together We Explore: A VSDB Family Series” — a free summer family event in Staunton on Monday, June 16 from 3–6 PM at Montgomery Hall Park. Open to all Deaf/HH, Blind/VI, and DeafBlind students (ages 2–21) and their families. Activities include a story walk, scavenger hunt, and hands-on sensory fun. Hosted by VSDB Family Engagement

We’re excited to share that our school cafeteria is getting a fresh new look! The renovation is all about creating a more welcoming, comfortable, and updated space for our students and staff to enjoy. Check out this sneak peek of what’s going on—and stay tuned for more updates as the transformation continues!

3 months ago, VSDB

The cafeteria has the fllors, doors, and openings covered. the lights have been removed and there is a man in a bright yellow vest working on renovations.

the cafeteria is shown with the floors and windows covered with construction prep.

🎉 We're so proud of our 2024–2025 class! 🎓 Your hard work, growth, and achievements this year have been truly inspiring. Next week, we’re excited to celebrate YOU: ✨ Deaf Moving Up Ceremony – Monday at 9:30-11:15pm ✨ Blind Moving Up Ceremony – Monday at 12:00pm -2:00pm 🎓 Graduation – Friday at 10:00am 🎉 Let’s finish the year strong and celebrate all you've accomplished!

3 months ago, VSDB

IT'S RED AND BLUE OUT DAY! Come out and support the Girls Flag Football and Boys Volleyball teams as they take on the final games of the year for VSDB's Athletics! It is also the senior night for some of our players! The Girls Flag Football game begins at 5pm at the Defender Field while the Boys Volleyball Game begins at 6:30 in the Llewellyn Gym. If you are unable to attend the Livestream will be on the team's game changer page: Girls Flag Football - https://web.gc.com/teams/do0nJlp2u2Fx Boys Volleyball - https://web.gc.com/teams/tsxem9CMp4Rf

3 months ago, David Owens

🎓 VSDB Deaf Department Graduate Scholarship 🎓 The Bass Foundation proudly supports graduating seniors and Deaf alumni from the Deaf Department at the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB) through scholarships funded by the R. Aumon and Mary Scott Bass endowment fund. Whether heading to college, university, or a vocational program, this scholarship helps ease financial stress and unlocks new opportunities for growth and learning. 🌟 Contact Race Drake, Jr. ( drake5963@gmail.com) for more information. #VSDB #DeafEducation #ScholarshipOpportunity #BassFoundation

3 months ago, VSDB

A red and black flyer with graduates waving their caps in the air. Text in white reads Bass Foundation VSDB Deaf Department Graduate Scholarship. The Bass Foundation is proud to support graduating seniors and Deaf alumni of the Deaf Department at the Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB) by providing scholarships through an endowment fund generously established by the estate of R. Aumon and Mary Scott Bass. Whether continuing at a college, university, or vocational program, this scholarship aims to ease financial burdens and open doors to new opportunities for learning and personal growth.. Access additional opportunities, Financial Support, Advance Career Goals. To Learn More, Contact: Race Drake, Jr. at drake5963@gmail.com

🎶🌸 Spring Concert Tonight! 🌸🎶 Join us this evening for a celebration of music, talent, and the joy of spring! Our students have been working hard, and their voices and instruments are ready to shine. Our program will be from 7:00pm - 9:00pm! Can’t make it in person? You can still enjoy the full performance by tuning in to our YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/live/VhDk0HleZ94

4 months ago, VSDB

It is a flyer with flowers and butterflies on the outskirt of the page, and music notes at the bottom. In the center are the words: Spring Concert, 7:00pm- 9:00pm May 1st 2025, Healy Auditorium. See us in person or on Youtube! Our Youtube channel is @TheVSDB .

Our students got their hands in the dirt and had a blast as we celebrated Earth Day down at the school farm! 🌱 From planting saplings to learning about sustainability, it was a day of connection, curiosity, and care for our planet. But the biggest surprise? A special guest appearance by The Lorax himself! 🌳🧡 He spoke for the trees and reminded us all why protecting our Earth matters. Thank you to our amazing staff, and students for making Earth day 2025 unforgettable. Let’s keep the spirit of Earth Day alive every day! !

4 months ago, VSDB

Students and teachers are standing outdoors and applauding a speaker.

"Students participating in a tree-planting activity, digging soil to create a hole on school grounds.

A colorful rain water collector that is and painted with an outdoor scene with flowers, grass and sunshine.

A teacher is holding out a root so that a blind student can feel it and understand the plants system while other teachers and students gather around.

A few students and teachers stand in a circle around a man dressed in a bright orange "The Lorax" costume.

Four people are gathered in a circle and squatting on the ground to plant a sapling.

A group of children standing in a outdoors on a grassy field, collaboratively holding a long white tube during an Earth Day activity, while an adult observes from a nearby picnic bench.

A student is sitting next to a sunshine cornhole board and is smiling. She is outside in a field and a group of people are in the background.

Two female students standing outdoors, one is reading a brail text.

A group of students and teachers stand in a circle outside, one is holding a plant, one is holding a clipboard, and one has his arm in the air.