Horace Mann School For The Deaf And Hard Of Hearing

Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is a public school located in Boston, Massachusetts, dedicated to providing quality education to students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Established in 1869, it is recognized as the oldest public day school for the deaf in the United States. The school is named after Horace Mann, a prominent advocate for public education and educational reform. The institution serves students from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade, offering a comprehensive curriculum that includes both academic and vocational training.

History

The Horace Mann School was founded with the mission to provide an educational environment tailored to the needs of deaf and hard of hearing students. Over the years, it has evolved to incorporate new teaching methods and technologies that assist in the education of its students. The school's history is marked by a commitment to inclusivity and the empowerment of its students to achieve their full potential.

Educational Approach

The educational approach at Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is centered around the use of American Sign Language (ASL) as the primary mode of communication, alongside English in its written form. This bilingual-bicultural (Bi-Bi) approach facilitates the development of language and literacy skills in both ASL and English. The school also utilizes various assistive technologies to support the learning process, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and FM systems.

Programs and Services

The school offers a range of programs and services designed to meet the diverse needs of its student population. These include:

• Early Childhood Education: Programs for young children that focus on language development and social skills.
• Academic Programs: A comprehensive curriculum that covers all core subjects, including mathematics, science, social studies, and language arts.
• Vocational Training: Opportunities for older students to learn job skills and prepare for employment after graduation.
• Extracurricular Activities: A variety of clubs and sports teams that allow students to explore interests and develop teamwork skills.
• Support Services: Counseling, speech therapy, and audiological services to support students' educational and personal development.

Community and Outreach

The Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is not only a place of learning but also a community hub for the deaf and hard of hearing in the Boston area. The school hosts events and workshops that are open to the public, aiming to raise awareness about deaf culture and the challenges faced by the deaf and hard of hearing community. Additionally, the school collaborates with local organizations and institutions to provide resources and support for students and their families.

Notable Achievements

The Horace Mann School for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing has been recognized for its innovative educational practices and its commitment to the deaf and hard of hearing community. It has received several awards and grants that have allowed it to expand its programs and improve its facilities. The school's dedication to excellence in education for deaf and hard of hearing students continues to be its guiding principle.

See Also

• Deaf education
• American Sign Language
• Cochlear implant
• Special education in the United States

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