Some school decisions clearly need the input of Deaf staff and community members; others do not. This answer key pairs with a training activity that asks teams to sort common decisions by how much they depend on Deaf experience and lived knowledge. Use it as the facilitator's guide: it explains why setting communication norms, planning events, choosing interpreters, and running safety drills call for Deaf expertise, while routine tasks like ordering supplies do not. It helps leaders build the habit of seeking Deaf experience where it genuinely improves access, accuracy, and belonging.
Because of your selected audience type, you may also enjoy the following related resources.
A tip sheet leaders use to avoid common missteps, such as tokenism, over-generalizing, or asking one person to speak for all, when drawing on Deaf staff and community expertise.
A training slide deck staff use together to explore what a strong ASL/English school climate looks like, covering access, respect, Deaf expertise, and leadership, through discussion and scenarios.
A guide leaders use to assess schoolwide climate and take next steps by stage, with tailored moves for programs from emerging to exemplary based on program review ratings.