The primary disability of the students in our program is bilateral hearing loss, ranging from mild to profound. They demonstrate a diverse range of academic and communication needs. A total communication approach is used which may include any combination of American Sign Language, signed English, voice, speech reading, amplification, writing, gesture, and visual imagery. While the communication method can vary from student to student, each class is a language rich environment, where acquisition and comprehension are addressed through content information. Our experienced staff of certified teachers and educational interpreters is adept at working with students from a broad range of backgrounds and communication styles.

Our philosophy is child-centered, driven by the individual needs and abilities of students. Students are encouraged to use all methods of communication available to them to further their social and academic growth.  Students come to the program with various communication styles and fall on the full spectrum of methods. The program provides many opportunities throughout the day for students to communicate for many different purposes and in many different ways. Our approach to communication uses and enhances the speech and language skills that students already have. Students benefit greatly from expanding their communication 'toolkit'. 

Over the long-term, students in the program have demonstrated measurable growth in their ability to communicate effectively.  Through exposure to and use of many different communication methods, students have increased access to peer interactions and rich social experiences.