Recognizing the huge need for blind education, Harriet Tucker approached R.A. Mott to champion the cause, and funds were made to establish a department within the Deaf & Blind School. Tucker was hired as principal; in 1879, J.J. Dow became superintendent, bringing national recognition to the school. That year the school became its own entity and moved to the site of Alexander Faribault’s brick mansion on the bluff. The school continues to offer specialized education which equips the blind to face challenges and accept opportunities confronting us all.