Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

For more than 160 years, the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind has provided specialized educational services for students who are blind, visually impaired, or DeafBlind from across Minnesota. As a statewide public school with a residential option, we provide individualized instruction in a fully accessible learning environment designed to meet each student's unique educational and communication needs.

Our teachers are professionally trained and licensed in Blind/Visually Impaired (BVI) education and work closely with students to develop academic skills, independence, self-advocacy, and confidence. Students also have access to specialized instruction in Braille, assistive technology, orientation and mobility, the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC), transition planning, and residential life.

At MSAB, we believe in educating the whole child. Through academics, athletics, student life, and extracurricular opportunities, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, leadership, and lifelong independent living skills.

Our goal is to provide functional equivalence, ensuring students have meaningful access to information, learning, and experiences through accessible materials, technology, and individualized supports that allow them to participate as fully and independently as possible.

There is no cost to families for students who attend the MSAB.

As a state-operated public school, tuition, instructional services, meals, and residential programming are funded by the Minnesota Legislature.

The student's resident school district is responsible for transportation and any specialized services identified in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), such as one-to-one paraprofessional or nursing support, when applicable. If you have questions about transportation or funding responsibilities, our enrollment team is happy to assist you and your resident school district throughout the enrollment process.

Families may incur minimal costs for optional activities, athletics, field trips, or personal expenses. Parents may also choose to establish a student account for incidental purchases while their child is on campus.

Yes. MSAB offers a residential program for students who live too far to commute daily or whose Individualized Education Program (IEP) Team determines that residential services are appropriate.

Students may attend MSAB as either:

• Residential students, who live on campus during the school week, or
• Day students, who commute to and from school each day.

Our residential program provides a safe, supportive, and home-like environment where students build independence, develop friendships, and participate in evening activities that complement their educational experience.

Residential students typically return home on Friday afternoons and return to campus on Sunday evenings. The residence halls are closed on weekends, school holidays, and scheduled school breaks.

If you have questions about residential eligibility or student life, our enrollment team is happy to help you determine the option that best meets your child's needs.

Transportation to and from MSAB is typically provided by the student's resident school district when transportation is identified as a required service in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Families may also choose to transport their child to and from campus if that option better meets their needs.

If you have questions about transportation arrangements or eligibility, our enrollment team is happy to work with you and your resident school district to ensure a smooth transition to MSAB.

MSAB offers the Academy Plus Transition Program (A+ Program), a specialized program designed to help students ages 18-22 prepare for a successful transition to adulthood.

Through individualized instruction and real-world experiences, students develop the academic, employment, independent living, and self-advocacy skills needed to achieve their postsecondary goals. The program focuses on preparing students for college, careers, and independent living while helping them build confidence, strengthen community connections, and become active, contributing members of their communities.

Students may receive instruction and support in areas such as career exploration, employment readiness, independent living, community participation, self-advocacy, and accessing community resources.

Learn more about the Academy Plus Transition Program on our Academics page.

Our Staff Directory makes it easy to find contact information for administrators, teachers, and departments across MSAB. If you're not sure who to contact, our main office will be happy to assist you - info@msa.state.mn.us

View the staff directory

We're here to help! Our team will work closely with your family and your child's resident school district throughout the enrollment process to ensure a smooth transition.

To get started, please contact:

Justin Cyboron
📞 (507) 384-6600
📧 justin.cyboron@msa.state.mn.us

We'll be happy to answer your questions and guide you through each step of the enrollment process.

Absolutely! We encourage families to visit our campus and experience firsthand what makes MSAB unique.

To schedule a personalized tour, please contact:

Justin Cyboron
📞 (507) 384-6600
📧 justin.cyboron@msa.state.mn.us

During your visit, you'll tour our campus and classrooms, learn about our educational and residential programs, and have the opportunity to meet with school staff to ask questions and discuss your child's individual needs.

We look forward to welcoming you to MSAB!

MSAB is committed to meeting the unique strengths and needs of every student. We provide individualized educational programs that help students build communication, independence, functional academic skills, and confidence while preparing for life beyond school.

Students with additional support needs may participate in our Alternative Curriculum Program, where individualized instruction, small class sizes, and a low student-to-staff ratio provide meaningful learning experiences tailored to each student's educational goals. Instruction emphasizes functional academics, communication, daily living skills, social development, self-advocacy, and independence through hands-on, accessible learning.

Every student at MSAB has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that outlines accommodations, specialized instruction, related services, and supports designed to help them achieve their goals. Depending on each student's needs, services may include Speech-Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Orientation & Mobility, Assistive Technology, DeafBlind Intervener Services, and other specialized supports.

Our interdisciplinary team works closely with families to ensure every student receives the individualized services and opportunities they need to learn, grow, and thrive.

Possibly. MSAB may accept students who reside outside of Minnesota through an agreement with the student's resident school district or educational agency. Tuition and enrollment arrangements are determined on a case-by-case basis.

The student's resident school district or educational agency is typically responsible for tuition, transportation, and any specialized services identified in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP), such as one-to-one paraprofessional or nursing support, when applicable.

To learn more about out-of-state enrollment opportunities, please contact:

Justin Cyboron
📞 (507) 384-6600
📧 justin.cyboron@msa.state.mn.us

We'll be happy to answer your questions and discuss whether MSAB may be an appropriate option for your child.

MSAB offers an Extended School Year (ESY) program for eligible students whose Individualized Education Program (IEP) Team has determined that ESY services are needed.

The ESY program provides specialized instruction designed to help students maintain progress toward their IEP goals while continuing to build academic, communication, social, and independent living skills. In addition to classroom instruction, students participate in engaging enrichment activities and opportunities to connect with peers in a supportive and accessible learning environment.

Visit our Extended School Year (ESY) page to learn more about program dates, eligibility, registration, and other important information.

Students who successfully complete Minnesota graduation requirements earn a standard high school diploma, the same diploma awarded by public schools throughout Minnesota.

If a student reaches the maximum age of eligibility before completing graduation requirements, they may receive a Certificate of Completion, recognizing their participation and progress in their educational program.

Our educational team works closely with students and families throughout their high school years to support progress toward graduation and successful transition to postsecondary education, employment, and adult life.

Residential students enjoy a wide variety of evening activities designed to support independence, build friendships, and create a positive residential experience. Activities may include recreational programs, arts and crafts, fitness and wellness activities, games, community outings, volunteer opportunities, independent living skill development, and special campus events.

Our Student Life program provides a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where students continue learning, build meaningful relationships, and develop the confidence and life skills needed for success beyond the classroom.

Yes. Some athletics, after-school programs, student organizations, competitions, and special activities may have minimal participation fees to help offset program or event costs.

Whenever a fee is required, families will be notified in advance with information about the activity, associated costs, and any registration requirements.

If you have questions about activity fees or need additional information, please contact the MSAB main office.

We encourage students to personalize their dormitory rooms with appropriate personal belongings to help create a comfortable "home away from home." Students should bring clothing, toiletries, medications (if applicable), and other personal items needed for daily living, along with any approved comfort items or decorations.

To help ensure a safe and positive residential environment, there are guidelines regarding personal belongings and items that may be kept in student rooms.

For a complete packing list and information about approved and prohibited items, please contact the Student Life Director or refer to the Parent & Student Handbook.

MSAB has an on-campus Health Services Clinic staffed by licensed nurses who provide care throughout the school day and are available on-call during evenings, nights, and weekends for residential students.

Our nursing staff administer medications as prescribed by your child's healthcare provider and work closely with families to support each student's individual health needs. In addition, MSAB staff are trained in CPR and First Aid to respond to medical emergencies and provide immediate assistance when needed.

If your child becomes ill or requires medical attention during the school day or while participating in residential programming, they will be evaluated by our nursing staff. Families will be contacted promptly to discuss their child's condition, any care that has been provided, and any additional steps that may be needed.

The health and safety of every student is our highest priority, and we are committed to providing a safe, supportive, and caring environment for all students.

Absolutely! We welcome prospective families, school district staff, and community members to learn more about MSAB through a campus visit.

Prospective families and school district representatives may schedule a personalized campus tour to explore our classrooms, programs, and residential services while meeting with staff to discuss their student's individual needs.

To provide a safe and productive learning environment, classroom observations are limited to educationally appropriate requests and are approved on a case-by-case basis. This helps minimize disruptions while protecting student privacy and instructional time.

Community members are invited to attend one of our scheduled public campus tours held throughout the school year. To learn about upcoming tour dates or request additional information, please contact:

Lance Sever-Hall
Director of Community Engagement
📞 (507) 400-6101

We look forward to welcoming you to MSAB!

Yes. The Minnesota State Academies may make campus facilities available for community groups and organizations, subject to space availability, school programming, and facility use policies.

To inquire about facility rentals, availability, or the reservation process, please contact:

Superintendent's Office
📞 (507) 400-6088
📧 kim.barron@msa.state.mn.us

Our team will be happy to discuss your request and help determine whether our facilities are available for your event.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind! We welcome volunteers and student interns who are interested in making a positive impact on the lives of our students.

Before applying, please review MSA Policy #450 – Volunteers, which outlines volunteer expectations, eligibility, and program guidelines.

To express your interest, complete the Contact Us form or contact our front office:

Heidi Cole
MSAB Front Office
📞 (507) 384-6700
📧 heidi.cole@msa.state.mn.us

Our staff will be happy to answer your questions and connect you with the appropriate department to discuss volunteer or internship opportunities.

We're always looking for passionate, dedicated professionals to join the MSAB community!

To view current employment opportunities and learn more about working at the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind, please visit our Employment Opportunities page. There you'll find current job openings, employee benefits, and information about the application process.

Employment Opportunities 

We look forward to learning more about you and the talents you can bring to our students and school community.

Thank you for your generosity and for your interest in supporting the Minnesota State Academy for the Blind! Gifts from individuals, businesses, and community organizations help enrich educational opportunities and enhance the experiences of our students.

To learn more about making a donation or supporting MSAB, please contact:

Lance Sever-Hall
Director of Community Engagement
📞 (507) 400-6101
📧 lance.sever-hall@msa.state.mn.us

You may also complete the Contact Us form, and a member of our team will be happy to connect with you to discuss donation opportunities and other ways to support our students and programs.