Outreach Programs

California School for the Blind (CSB) outreach programs are offered through the California Education Resource Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CERCBVI), whose mission is to provide no cost consultation, assessment, training, and technical assistance for educational teams and families of visually impaired students throughout California.

Select the links below for more information as well as how to contact the Assessment, Assistive Technology and Low Vision departments.

Assessment Program

Assessment Program Website

The Assessment Program at CSB is a statewide resource of professionals who have specific expertise in the education of children and young adults who are blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind. The assessment team provides parent and staff consultation, professional development, and two models of student assessment. Structured assessments are conducted for students who can respond to formal testing on the CSB campus; observation and consultation are provided for students whose strengths and needs are best demonstrated through interactions within their familiar home and school environments. A collaborative conference with parents and educational professionals is followed by a written report.

Assistive Technology Center

Assistive Technology Center Website

The Assistive Technology Center provides individual student assessment to determine assistive technology needs. In addition, technical assistance and trainings/staff developments are provided to students, families, and school professionals.

Low Vision Clinic

Low Vision Clinic Website

In partnership with the University of California School of Optometry the CSB low vision clinic provides low vision exams to individual students at no cost to families or districts. Optical devices are also provided as needed. Consultation and staff development opportunities are offered.

Short Courses

Short Courses Website

The Short Course programs are designed to address the unique educational needs of students with visual impairments currently attending school in their local school districts. The Short Course program provides intensive short-term instruction in areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC), such as daily living skills, adaptive technology, or orientation and mobility. More information about registration is found on the Short Courses website.

Summer Academies

Summer Academies Website

Summer Academy programs provide students with the opportunity to have fun, address elements of the ECC, utilize technology, and build social skills. Nearly all the courses for this summer will be held in-person and on-campus at California School or the Blind (CSB). Students can attend only one course per week but frequently participate in more than one week. More information about registration is found on the Summer Academies website.

Annual Events

Every year, the Outreach Team members support many events through participation in planning, attending workshops, and providing presentations and resources. The annual events we participate in are: