Special Education

NYS School for the Blind, photos of the students
Speech and Language

Lisa Klossner, M.S., L-SLP
Theresa Ash, M.S., L-SLP
Debra Hilton, M.S., L-SLP

The goal of the Speech and Language program at the New York State School for the Blind is to provide an opportunity for each student to develop an effective mode of communication.

  • Individualized instruction is provided on a regular basis given whenever a student needs require specific expertise of the therapist. Some areas addressed in this way are alternative communication techniques, early expressive language development, articulation, voiced and fluency problems, and initial assessment of all language delays.
  • Regular supervision and monitoring of program is provided regarding all skills which can and should be integrated throughout the student's educational day. major areas addressed in this way are early receptive language, oral-motor skill development and cary-over from direct therapy sessions. Consultation and carry over is done throughout the students educational and residential day to ensure consistency and growth.
  • Consultation is provided to staff in all areas of language development including:
  1. sensory awareness
  2. attending skills
  3. motor imitation
  4. auditory processing skills
  5. vocabulary acquisition
  6. all stages of expressive and receptive language development
  7. alternative methods of communication.
The Speech and language Program at the New York State School for the blind is premised on the philosophy that all students have a right to communicate and deserve our best professional efforts to help them achieve that end.

lisa and crickett lisa and noah
Children who are nonverbal may be taught to communicate using sign language skills or picture symbols, as a way to develop greater independence for communicating with others.

Last Updated: March 12, 2015