At Perkins, we take an individualized approach to educating each student. Based on their specific needs and abilities, students are taught core academics as well as the Expanded Core Curriculum to ensure every child is prepared for life after Perkins.
We serve children with a range of needs and abilities, from college-bound students to those in need of ongoing community support. All our programs include both academic and functional learning options -focused on each student’s successful transition to adulthood.
Our faculty has decades of experience teaching students how to access information. Our specialists in orientation and mobility, speech and language pathology, physical and occupational therapy, individual and group counseling and assistive technology are experts in their fields. They all share a common goal: to educate and prepare our students for independence today and later in life.
We practice a whole-child approach to learning. Student-specific goals focus on subjects across the General and Expanded Core Curricula.
Each student learns communication skills in the form that’s right for them. For one student, that might be braille, and for another, large print. For a student with Cortical/Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI), literacy lessons incorporate proven intervention strategies.
Our adapted STEM education curriculum helps students integrate into a technology-driven world while developing practical life skills. Our students master concepts through engaging curriculum designed to meet individual students’ needs.
Navigating the world looks different for people with disabilities. O&M training allows our students to navigate the world independently, safely and efficiently. This is one of the ways we give children the steps toward independence.
From our handbell choir and the Perkins Student Chorus to our annual art show exhibitions, our music and arts education plays an important role in our students’ education. It stretches imaginations, develops cognitive and physical skills, and offers a chance at self-expression and other means of communication.
At Perkins, we make sports and physical education accessible to students of all abilities. Whether it’s giving more tactile or audio cues, or using modified equipment, our adapted physical education gives students access to a healthy, active and physically engaging life.
Learning only begins in the classroom. That’s why we offer an array of after-school programs varied enough to appeal to every student’s taste. Cheerleading, goalball, an extended day program and yoga are just a few of the choices available. Residential students have additional options including DJ club, Spanish club and teen hangout nights.
The Grousbeck Center for Students and Technology (GCST) is a social hub for Perkins students where they can learn about new accessible technology, enjoy music and play games. The space and equipment are completely accessible for people who are blind or visually impaired and available help integrate technology into every phase of a Perkins education, including academics, music, art, life skills, mobility training and recreation.
Ed Bosso Perkins School for the Blind Superintendent“We believe in the fundamental human right to an education — that all really means all, that the children and people we serve deserve the highest of expectations and access and inclusion. At Perkins, we break down barriers, and we solve some of the most stubborn issues in the field of education for people who are blind and visually impaired.”
Students control the airwaves at Radio Perkins, the Internet radio station at GCST. Student DJs work with mentors to improve their confidence, communication and organization skills — all while playing their favorite music for listeners across the country. Tune in to any of our student-produced shows Monday through Friday.
Perkins health care staff include program nurses, a nurse practitioner, physicians, a dietitian and support staff work closely with your child’s regular health care providers to ensure that your child is receiving the best care possible. Perkins Health Services is affiliated with Children’s Hospital of Boston where emergency and specialty care is available.
The Perkins School year consists of 205 days in session. School hours vary for each on-campus program. View our current school calendar for our dedicated holiday and vacation days, early dismissals and graduation dates.
Finding the best school for your child can be challenging. We’d love to talk with you about how Perkins could be the right fit.