Deaf or Hard of Hearing Resources
This page shares Kansas and national resources that support individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, along with their families and educators. It includes information about schools, early language development programs, teacher training, advocacy services, and national guidance. These resources help ensure access to communication, education, and support across all ages.
Kansas Resources
- Kansas School for the Deaf (KSD): The Kansas School for the Deaf, established in 1861, is a state-funded, accredited school located in Olathe, Kansas. KSD serves students who are deaf or hard of hearing from Pre-K through grade 12 and provides specialized educational programming and support services.
- Language Assessment Program for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Students (LAP-DHH): The LAP-DHH tracks American Sign Language (ASL) and/or English language development from birth through age eight. Coordinated by the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH) and housed at KSD, the program enrolls children early and supports families through early childhood.
- For more information, visit the LAP-DHH website. [external link]
- Kansas Teachers of the Deaf (TOD) Endorsement and Professional Development Project: This project supports licensed Kansas educators who are pursuing a Teacher of the Deaf endorsement. Participants may receive tuition assistance, books, fees, materials, and travel support while completing a Master’s-level Deaf Education program at a pre-approved university.
- For more information, visit the Kansas TOD Endorsement and Professional Development Project website. [external link]
- Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (KCDHH): The KCDHH advocates for equitable access to services for Kansans who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- For more information, visit the KCDHH website. [external link]
- Contact Robert Cooper, Executive Director.
National Resources
- The Optimizing Outcomes for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing: Educational Services Guidelines (3rd Edition, 2019) developed by the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE), these guidelines provide best practices to support educators and families in improving educational outcomes for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
- National Deaf Center offers resources, training, and guidance for institutions, educators, students, and professionals to improve access and success for deaf individuals nationwide.
- For more information, visit the National Deaf Center - Resources website. [external link]
