DHH Program

Mary Jane Shannon Elementary is host to a language enhancement and acquisition focused program. This model provides Deaf and Hard of Hearing students with the opportunity to learn alongside Deaf and Hard of Hearing peers while being in an environment that provides full access to the visual language of American Sign Language (ASL), while in a mainstream setting. Deaf and Hard of Hearing students here have a Teacher of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, fluent in ASL, available 5 days a week to help them learn in their classrooms, as well as in more focused settings for language learning and expression. 

The primary goals for students enrolled include the development of either, or both, languages (English/ASL), as well as skills in English literacy. ASL bilingual programming is offered for students whose families have expressed a preference for their child to learn through direct instruction in American Sign Language, or for students who require sign language to communicate. Where appropriate, families are encouraged to access programming in both modes of communication.

Deaf adult role models and mentors, EAs fluent in ASL, and ASL Interpreters are part of the staff cohort, with Language Acquisition Support Workers (LASW) coming in to lead weekly Deaf friendly activities.

Introductory ASL learning is offered and available to all classes at Mary Jane Shannon, with an ASL lunch club set to begin in the 2022/2023 school year.

We are building a school-wide community comfortable with ASL communication and familiar with Deaf Culture, which allows all Deaf or Hard of Hearing students to be included in every aspect of school life.