Vision, Mission & Philosophy

Vision Statement
The American School for the Deaf will be the premier comprehensive center providing education and resources for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, their families, and educational partners in Connecticut and beyond.

Mission Statement
The American School for the Deaf serves the deaf and hard of hearing community as a multifaceted innovative institution dedicated to the development of intellect and the enhancement of quality of life, producing educated and self-directed citizens.

Philosophy
Founded in 1817, the American School for the Deaf was the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States and a nationally renowned leader in providing comprehensive educational, programs and services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

The School’s total communication philosophy embraces English, American Sign Language, the integration of speech, auditory training, reading, writing, and use of assistive devices as essential parts of total education that enables students to achieve true language and communication literacy.