The May 16 editorial, “Study Schools for Blind, Deaf: Legislature should examine if state-run boarding facilities best way to aid kids,” suggested that the Washington State School for the Blind be closed. It also made reference to closure of the Oregon School for the Blind in 2009. The reason why WSSB remains open is because it looks forward into the future.
As a graduate I can testify to the success of my role in society because of WSSB. Through the study of Braille, computer use, independent skills, and opportunities to be fully participate in classes of history, science, math, English, etc., I am now a fully functioning, working citizen in our country.
WSSB also provides resources for teachers and students in other school districts. Because of the skills learned at WSSB I graduated from high school, attended Clark College, and graduated from one of the most highly regarded music colleges, Berklee College of Music.
To close the WSSB would be an insult to students, parents, teachers — an insult to this state which promotes educational opportunities. To keep the school open is worth being proud of. I thus encourage elected officials to look past the cost of maintaining WSSB’s programs and consider the cost to the students if resources are taken away.
