Model Secondary School For The Deaf

Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) and Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES) provide specialized education for deaf and hard of hearing students from infancy through high school. As the federally mandated demonstration schools of the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center at Gallaudet University, they serve as a premier resource for families seeking excellence in deaf education and specialized communication support.

The curriculum is designed to foster academic achievement, emotional intelligence, and life planning, with a strong emphasis on using both American Sign Language (ASL) and English. Students are active partners in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), working within a community that prioritizes the development of the whole child. The school's approach focuses on building a positive sense of self, which is viewed as critical for long-term success and self-directed learning.

MSSD offers a diverse, nonsectarian environment for students in grades 9-12, supported by a dedicated faculty of 30 teachers. The school serves as a hub for exploring effective teaching and learning approaches that are shared with families and professionals nationwide. Admissions are handled on a rolling basis, providing flexibility for families navigating the transition to specialized secondary education.