WHAT DOES MULTI-DISABLED MEAN?

As the term suggests, this refers to individuals with more than one disability. The range and possible combinations and degree of severity are infinite and make each individual’s situation unique. Examples range from neurological disabilities such as brain damage, to physical limitations, learning and developmental challenges. The key to treatment is to undertake comprehensive professional assessments and to implement, monitor, and evaluate an integrated multi-disciplinary education plan relevant to each person’s unique needs and situation.

In the case of St. Joseph’s, teachers of the disabled, teachers of the visually impaired and early childhood intervention, in addition to teacher aides, physical, occupational and speech therapists, and orientation and mobility (i.e., independent travel) instructors, all play key roles in our holistic educational approach for infants, children and youths who are visually impaired and often with additional disabilities. The staff at St. Joseph’s is a unique team, working with unique individuals.