Program Identity Research List

Program identity is a school's Deaf-centered character, the shared language, culture, and values that define who the program is. This reading list gathers research supporting that identity, including work on Deaf gain (the idea that being Deaf brings real strengths), on why early language access matters, and on the role of Deaf culture and role models. Use it to ground your program's vision in evidence, to guide planning and communication, and to explain to staff, families, and stakeholders why a strong Deaf-centered identity supports children's development and belonging.