Organized in 1898 with four teachers and 37 students, the Detroit Day School for the Deaf is one of the oldest schools of its kind in the United States. Its name distinguished it from residential programs, the more usual form of education for the deaf at that time. The present building was designed and built specifically to meet the needs of deaf and hard of hearing students. Detroit Day School for the Deaf was the first publicly supported school for the Deaf in the country, attesting to the humanitarianism of the Detroit Community. At the current site since 1970, the school campus is ideally located at the John C. Lodge Service Drive and Forest, providing easy access for parents and students in the metropolitan Detroit area. The new Detroit Public Schools Hearing and Speech Center is adjacent to the Detroit Day School for the Deaf. The school is also close to the Medical Center, other area hospitals, Wayne State University, community service organizations and the heart of Detroit's cultural area, providing multiple enrichment opportunities for the school curriculum within walking distance or a short bus ride.
At Detroit Day School for the Deaf students learn in a unique, full communication access environment, where staff and students use both American Sign Language and English. Deaf and hard of hearing students learn in small classes which by state mandate do not exceed seven students per teacher. Students have access to the the general education curriculum with all necessary accommodations and/or modifications according to each student's Individualized Educational Plan. DDSD strives to be fully compliant with IDEA 2004 and the Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act in meeting student needs.
The Detroit Day School for the Deaf (DDSD) students learn in a unique environment, where staff utilize both American Sign Language and Oral Instruction. The program prepares students to be functioning deaf or hard of hearing adults, equipped with self-advocacy skills which promote deaf pride and responsibility. Students have access to the general academic curriculum modified to meet their needs. Our students are mainstreamed with Edmonson K-8 School which assists in their transition skills. There is specialized focus on literacy, writing and communication skills as well as everyday living strategies such as handling money, public transportation, homemaking, appropriate decision-making, and other practical life skills.
Our Mission
At the Detroit Day School for the Deaf, the administrator, teachers, and support staff all embrace the mission of maximizing the human potential of every child while recognizing the unique and complex communication needs of The Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Our program is committed to educating and empowering students who are able to communicate and function successfully in both hearing and deaf communities, who are self reliant, confident, and proud of their Deaf heritage. We strive to develop character in our students and provide them with the strategies for self discipline and motivation.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliant
DDSD meets ADA requirements throughout the building for deaf and hard of hearing students and was built with specific considerations and enhancements for deaf and hard of hearing students to benefit from and utilize their residual hearing.
