American School For The Deaf

Founded in 1817, the American School for the Deaf (ASD) is the oldest special education school in the Western Hemisphere and the only school in Connecticut exclusively devoted to the education of deaf and hard of hearing children. ASD's mission is to serve the deaf and hard of hearing community as a multi-faceted, innovative institution dedicated to the development of intellect and the enhancement of quality of life, producing educated and self-directed citizens. Enrollment in pre-kindergarten through grade 12 is 201, and approximately 75% of the students are Connecticut residents. Eighty-two percent of those enrolled have at least one disability in addition to being deaf or hard of hearing. Sixty-eight percent are members of racial or ethnic minority groups, and fifty-one percent qualify for the federal free or reduced lunch program. Current programs include a traditional pre-kindergarten through high school academic program; vocational education and work experience programs; a home-based, statewide Early Childhood Intervention Program; a special program for students with behavioral/emotional disorders; summer education and work programs; a summer camp; and outreach and support services (teachers of the deaf, educational consultants, audiologists, etc.) to 27 public school districts throughout Connecticut.