Superintendent Joel Coleman, Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind

Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind (USDB) educates students who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, blind, or low vision so they can achieve their full academic, social, and career potential. USDB supports more than 4,000 students across the State of Utah. The majority of students attend schools districts throughout Utah and USDB teachers travel to the students’ neighborhood schools. USDB supports them with outreach teachers, aids, programs, resources and technology, based on their individual educational needs.

Superintendent Joel Coleman has spent over 30 years in teaching and administration as well as various roles in public service and civic involvement. He has led USDB since his appointment in 2013. Under his direction, USDB has adopted a united focus on innovative, personalized learning for each child. He led the effort to become a member of the Digital Promise League of Innovative Schools, and has been a champion of digital tools, real-world learning opportunities, and a competency-based approach to student learning. Joel’s wife Kim is a former member of the Utah House of Representatives. They have 5 children, who all attend or have graduated from Utah public schools and institutions of higher education.