Residential Life
Approximately 50% of ASD students elect to spend the school week in dormitories on the School’s beautiful 54-acre campus. Residential students arrive at ASD Monday morning and return home Friday afternoon, allowing them to spend Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening at home. During the school week, ASD's outstanding para-professional staff provides extensive after-school programming. More than 80% of the Residential Life staff are certified by the Conference of Educational Administrators Serving the Deaf (CEASD).
The ASD Difference:
Comprehensive Programs that Support Personal and Academic Growth
Residential Life program goals include providing students the opportunity to assume leadership roles, develop their collaborative abilities and strengthen their social skills. Students have access to a broad range of after-school programs and activities, many of which are open to ASD students as well as area deaf and hard-of-hearing students who are served by Outreach and Support Services. Tailored to the individual’s needs and interests, ASD’s after school programs effectively support the social and emotional development of each student.
Our Philosophy
As is true throughout the American School for the Deaf, Residential Life programming is guided by the Total Communication Philosophy. All modes of language/communication – speech, speechreading, English and American Sign Language – are encouraged, ensuring that communication is effective and comfortable for each student.
Programs and Activities
- A variety of clubs and organizations including Junior National Association of the Deaf, Student Forum, Connecticut Forum, Drama Club, Martin Luther King organization, and Student Lounge Management
- Elective mini-course offerings featuring a wide range of special interests in both academic and recreational areas of study
- Leadership development training
- Off-campus activities and cultural events including the Eastern States Exposition and Hartford Stage Company theater performances
- The Evening Tutorial Program is open to all middle and high school dorm and day students who have their own transportation. It is held Monday through Wednesday evenings and students are welcome as "walk-ins" between the hours of 6:30-8:30pm. Some computers are available for use. The certified teachers of the deaf are available during those hours.
- Evening access to library and computers
- Interscholastic athletic program featuring competitive teams in seven sports, cheerleading and membership in the Eastern Schools for the Deaf Athletic Association as well as two junior teams for elementary students (soccer and basketball)
- Intramural athletic programs in basketball, football and baseball
- After-school work experience offering students opportunities to work in a variety of job settings both on and off campus
Expertise and Experience
For nearly two centuries, ASD has been serving the educational needs of deaf citizens of all ages. The combination of ASD's experience and vast network of contacts places ASD in a unique position to effectively serve the deaf community.
A strong commitment to excellence and personalized attention is demonstrated in every Residential Life program. Relevant activities, state-of the-art equipment, special devices for deaf and hard of hearing students and a highly dedicated Residential Life staff ensure each ASD student a well-balanced, comprehensive educational experience.
For more information, contact:
Jeff Bravin
Assistant Executive Director
jeff.bravin@asd-1817.org
860.570.2351