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DHH

Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Lake Air is proud to provide a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment tailored to meet the unique communication and academic needs of students who are deaf or hard of hearing. 

DHH Goals:

  • Support language development- spoken, signed, or both
  • Provide individualized instruction aligned with each student's IEP
  • Help students build strong communication, academic, social, and self-advocacy skills 
  • Create a classroom where students feel valued, understood, and included 

Communication Approaches:

We honor the diverse communication needs of each student. Depending on the child's abilities and goals, our classrooms may include:

  • American Sign Language (ASL)
  • Spoken English with hearing technology (e.g, hearing aids, cochlear implants)
  • Total Communication (a combination of signing, speech, visuals, and gestures)
  • Cued Speech, if applicable

 

 

Instructional Team:

Your child is supported by a team of professionals, which may include:

  •  DHH-certified teachers
  • Educational interpreters or aides
  • Speech-language pathologists
  • General education teachers and specialists (for inclusion and electives)

We collaborate regularly to ensure your child's needs are met both in and out of the DHH classroom. 

What Students Learn: 

In the DHH classroom, students receive:

  • Instruction in core academic subjects (ELA, math, science, and social studies)
  • Support with language and vocabulary development 
  • Self-advocacy and social- emotional learning 
  • Preparation for inclusion in general education settings when ready

 

Inclusion & Peer Interactions: 

  • Students may participate in general education classes as appropriate 
  • We foster opportunities for interaction with hearing peers through lunch, special classes (e.g., art, music, PE, theater), and field trips
  • Social skills support is embedded to promote confidence and friendships 

 

Hearing Technology:

If your child uses hearing technology, we:

  • Ensure it is worn properly and checked daily 
  • Provide FM/DM systems or classroom audio support when needed 
  • Coordinate with your child's teacher to monitor and update equipment use

 

IEP & Parent Involvement:

  • Every student has an Individualized Education Program (IEP) developed with input from the family, teacher(s), and support staff
  • Parents/Guardians are vital team members- we invite you to attend IEP meetings, communicate openly, and partner with us 
  • Regular updates, progress reports, and family communication will keep you informed