May 18, 2007

Superintendent Ignores Community Concerns
Proposal to Merge Two State Schools Moves Forward Without Process
Today Superintendent of Public Instruction Susan Castillo announced her intent to merge the Oregon School for the Blind (OSB) and Oregon School for the Deaf (OSD). The proposal comes even after strong opposition from teachers, parents and community members. The School for the Blind currently houses 30 students on the Salem campus but serves more than 400 students statewide. The School for the Deaf serves more than 100 students from around state. Both schools have been serving Oregon students more than 130 years.

“Throughout this flawed process, parents, educators and students have been ignored. The Department of Education was not interested in hearing from stakeholders,” said Charleen Hoiland, President of the State Teachers Association. “ We have been fighting to give our kids a voice. Today that voice has been silenced.”

Opponents of the merge have consistently stated that the move would endanger the safety and educational opportunities for students without saving tax payer dollars. The fight has drawn national attention with the American Council for Blind and the National Federation of the Blind voicing their opposition to the merge.

“We are extremely disappointed that the Superintendent has ignored the concerns of parents and the community,” said Hoiland. “This move will do real harm to students.”

Currently the legislature is considering a bill that would provide an increased voice for parents, teachers and other affected parties of the two schools. Senate Bill 757 would create an independent board, similar to a local school board. It would also enhance lines of communications between stakeholders and the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) as well as create an appeals process.The bill is currently in the Joint Ways & Means Committee.

“Senate Bill 757 provides for a formal process for administrators, educators, students and parents to provide necessary feedback to ODE on how the schools are run,” said Hoiland. “This is critical because educators in the classroom and parents at home are best situated to understand the needs of these unique students.”

The State Teachers Education Association represents 54 licensed educators who teach at the school for the blind and school for the deaf.