The statements of knowledge and skills contained in this manual are the outcome of a collaborative process involving a committee that included the project staff, university level faculty, and a state coordinator of deaf-blind services. The competencies are designed for use as a blueprint for course development and field experiences by university personnel preparation programs in deaf-blindness. Competencies address: (1) effects of deaf-blindness; (2) personal identity, relationships, and self-esteem; (3) concept development; (4) communication; (5) auditory and visual systems; (6) orientation and mobility; (7) environment and materials; and (8) professional issues. The knowledge and skill statements are based on the central assumption that learners who are deaf-blind require highly specialized and personalized teaching approaches. The focus of the knowledge and skills statements is infants, children, and youth who are deaf-blind and their families. The core of the teacher competencies section is the teacher's ability to build a strong, trusting, personal relationship with the learner. The knowledge and skills statements are not specific to ages or educational placements. An appendix contains the Council for Exceptional Children's "Common Core of Knowledge and Skills Essential for All Beginning Special Education Teachers." (CR)