Program identity is a school's Deaf-centered character, the sense that this is a place built by and for Deaf people. Use this checklist as you walk the building to see whether that identity is real and consistent. It prompts you to look for Deaf role models who are present and engaged, Deaf culture and history reflected in shared spaces, ASL used naturally in every setting, strong ties to the Deaf community, and students taking on leadership and advocacy roles. Use what you notice to name strengths and plan coaching that moves the whole program toward exemplary bilingual practice.
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Transformative practices in deaf education centered on bilingual learning, equity, and student-centered innovation, and how educators and families adapted after the pandemic.
A tip sheet for spotting the marks of a school's Deaf-centered identity: Deaf role models, ASL, Deaf culture, community ties, and student leadership. Use it as a quick reference.
The experiences of hard of hearing students: academic and social challenges, overlooked needs, identity, and supports that reduce stress in hearing-centered classrooms.