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.
Because of your selected audience type, you may also enjoy the following related resources.
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.
A guide school leaders can use to strengthen their program's Deaf-centered identity, its Deaf role models, ASL use, and Deaf culture, with next steps for each stage of growth.
A presentation teams use to build a shared picture of Deaf-centered practice across a school, from Deaf role models and ASL use to student leadership.