The Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) serves children and students who are blind or have low vision. Our services are focused on building the foundation of a productive, independent, and successful childhood, youth, and adulthood.
Pre-Employment Transition Services
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) refers to the workshops, programs, and activities provided by DSB under the guidelines of Title IV of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
WIOA seeks to provide young people with the skills to help them achieve future careers by providing:
- Job exploration counseling
- Work based learning experiences to explore careers
- Counseling on enrollment for comprehensive transition and post-secondary transition opportunities
- Instruction in Self-Advocacy
Learn more about Pre-Employment Transition Services for youth and students.
Workshops and Programs
To provide students with the benefits of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), DSB Pre-Employment Transition Services Specialists host a variety of educational and fun Pre-ETS Workshops and Programs across the state throughout the school year. These workshops provide young people with opportunities to:
- Define their strengths and goals.
- Learn about educational and career paths.
- Strengthen daily living skills.
- Meet others and have fun!
Learn more about DSB Workshops and Programs.
Services for Families and Children
DSB offers resources and information for families with infants and small children who are blind or have low vision, and technical consultative services to schools, Birth-through-3 centers, and other community organizations who work with blind or low vision children.
When questions arise on how a blind or low vision child might overcome obstacles to participate in activities, we offer ideas, resources, and support on how it can be done.
External Resources
Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB)
WSSB is a valuable resource for families looking for educational resources for students who are blind or visually impaired. DSB partners with WSSB on programs, workshops, and the Learning Independence For Today and Tomorrow (LIFFT) program.
Visit the Washington State School for the Blind.
PAVE - Partnerships for Action | Voices for Empowerment
PAVE provides support, training, information, and resources to empower and give voice to individuals, youth, and families impacted by disabilities.
Visit PAVE.
National Federation of the Blind of Washington - Parents Group
The NFBW sponsors a Parents Group to support both parents of blind children and blind parents. Contact Jennifer Gandarias at gandarias1217@gmail.com for more information.
Request DSB services online. Or contact us at 800-552-7103 or info@dsb.wa.gov for more information.
* Students must be eligible to work in the U.S. to participate in programs providing paid work experience.