Florida School For The Deaf & Blind

Summary of Services

• Provides tuition-free, inclusive education for students with visual and hearing impairments, from kindergarten through 12th grade
• Specialized Learning Divisions include an Early Learning Center, Blind Elementary/Middle/High School, and Deaf Elementary/Middle/High School
• Accessible Instructional Tools include Braille, American Sign Language (ASL), tactile materials, captioning, and assistive technologies
• Physical Education & Wellness, which includes Fitness testing, swimming, running, and team sports
• Off-campus partnerships, including programs with Florida Technical College

Creating Inclusive Programs for Children with Exceptionalities

Since its founding in 1885, the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB) has served as a cornerstone of educational opportunity for students with visual and hearing impairments. Providing a tuition-free, fully accessible education from kindergarten through 12th grade, FSDB is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where every student is encouraged, supported, and empowered to reach their highest potential.

FSDB’s campus includes specialized learning environments across multiple divisions: the Early Learning Center, Blind Elementary and Middle School, Blind High School, Deaf Elementary School, Deaf Middle School, and Deaf High School. Each classroom incorporates accessible instructional formats, such as braille, American Sign Language (ASL), tactile learning tools, captioning, and assistive technologies, to support students in building strong language, academic, and social skills while exploring their interests.

Promoting Wellness and Empowering Students to Build Confidence Every Step of the Way

In addition to academic instruction, FSDB places a strong emphasis on physical health and wellness. Students participate in physical education courses that include fitness assessments, swimming, running, team sports, and other activities designed to promote lifelong healthy habits.

To help students reach ambitious academic and career goals, FSDB offers an array of advanced learning opportunities, including honors classes, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual enrollment, and college-level instruction through St. Johns River State College (SJRSC). These programs enable students to earn credits, gain confidence, and prepare for postsecondary education or future careers.

Helping Students Discover Their Passion

Beyond the school day, FSDB provides a robust suite of enrichment opportunities that support personal growth and independence. After-school activities, professional development workshops, summer programs, and career readiness training help students cultivate new skills and discover their passions. 

Off-campus partnerships with organizations such as Florida Technical College further expand students’ access to hands-on learning experiences and real-world career exploration. Together, these programs ensure that FSDB students receive not only a strong academic foundation but also the resources, encouragement, and opportunities needed to become confident, capable lifelong learners.

Elgibility

To qualify for services, students must reside in Florida (with limited exceptions for out-of-state applicants), be between the ages of 3 and 21, and demonstrate developmental and mental readiness for participation in the school’s programs. Students should be able to feed themselves and manage basic hygiene needs with a reasonable level of independence, attend school regularly, and meet established intellectual and behavioral standards. 

Additionally, parents or guardians are required to provide a current healthcare plan and consent for emergency medical treatment if necessary. For more information about eligibility requirements, please visit here.