& Questions & Answers About our Program. . .

This page attempts to answer frequently asked questions by parents, teachers, and school districts.

Where is the center located?

The center's nine acre campus is located in southeast Nebraska. Nebraska City is a progressive city of 7,000 + people, only 45 minutes from Lincoln and Omaha. The small town setting provides contrast to the hectic pace of cities, yet allows easy access to Lincoln and Omaha. Maps

Does a child have to be totally blind to attend the center?

No. However, a prospective student must be verified in one of three categories: blind, legally blind, or partially sighted.

Are there other criteria for admission to NCECBVI?

Yes. The student's needs must be related to the impact of the visual impairment on learning, self-care, mobility, communication, and socialization. Generally, a student's admission concerning a student's enrollment is determined at Individual Educational Program(IEP) conferences.

Is NCECBVI only a residential program?

No. The school enrolls both day and residential students. We also accept short-term placements.

Where does the student live while going to NCECBVI?

Students live in campus dorms. The students go home on a weekly basis to be with their families. Families work with NCECBVI and their local school districts to provide transportation.

How does the center handle individual medical needs?

NCECBVI has a health center staffed by a registered nurse. Student medications, routine exams, and dietary requirements are coordinated through the health center. In an emergency, student are taken to a nearby hospital.

Once enrolled, will the student remain at NCECBVI until graduation or age 21?

The student's family, local school, and the staff of NCECBVI decide together when a student is ready to make a successful transition to home and local programs. The school offers both long-term and short-term programs. A student may remain enrolled until graduation or age 21 if it is determined at the annual IEP review that he or she can continue to benefit from the school's educational program.

Students may be enrolled short term to address specific needed skills, which will then permit them to return to, and be successful in, their local school.

Will NCECBVI prepare my child for transition from school to adult life?

Yes. A transitional living program provides knowledge and skills in communication, home living, money awareness, recreation/leisure, and vocational training that are necessary for adulthood.

Participation in the transition program is determined at the Individualized Educational Program (IEP) conference. Transition planning is a collaborative service designed to assist the student, their family, and involve necessary agencies to develop strategies and achieve student goals for adult life.

If you have other questions, feel free to email our office at lwurtele@esu4.org. You may also call us at 402-873-5513 or 800-826-4355.