Program identity is the philosophy and values that guide how a program supports Deaf and hard of hearing children and families, its Deaf-centered character. Administrators use this checklist to make that identity real day to day. It prompts you to keep a clear language philosophy that supports ASL and English Bilingual development, ensure staff can explain and apply it, and reflect the families and communities you serve. It also covers consistent messaging across staff and partners, visible representation of Deaf adults and Deaf culture, and using family and staff feedback to keep growing.
Because of your selected audience type, you may also enjoy the following related resources.
A checklist providers use to help families experience a program's Deaf-centered values, from explaining the language approach to using strengths-based conversations and connecting families to Deaf culture.
A tip sheet you can use to understand what program identity means, why a clear one matters for families, and what a strong, Deaf-centered program identity looks like in practice.
A research list you can use to ground a program's Deaf-centered identity in evidence, gathering studies on Bilingual values, Deaf role models, and consistent messaging to families.