This report is a program planning document for the South Dakota School for the Deaf and the South Dakota School for the Visually Handicapped. First, it reviews the history and current status of the schools and then presents information on the planning process, which included the two schools, the South Dakota Board of Regents, and the state legislature. The environment in which individuals with disabilities live and the role of residential and day schools for individuals with deafness and blindness are described. Assumptions of the plan are identified for such areas as: mission and planning, governance, students, program, staffing, finance, facilities, and intergovernmental relations. Future directions are identified, including: (1) access to appropriate services; (2) quality of programs and services; (3) maximization of service delivery statewide; (4) creation of a quality teaching and learning environment that promotes student growth; (5) development of the schools as centers of excellence; (6) resource management; (7) collaborative partnerships with parents, state education agency staff, school districts, state universities, consumer groups, and service providers; (8) increased public understanding of vision and hearing loss and appreciation for quality educational programs for children; (9) competitive compensation for employees; and (10) maintenance of facilities and equipment. Specific objectives are listed for each of these directions. Benchmarks to measure the progress toward each goal are provided in a checklist format. The mission statement of each school is given. (CR)