Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf is a tuition-free school for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students, serving birth through Grade 12.
The Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) is a tuition-free, non-profit special education school serving Deaf and hard-of-hearing children from birth through Grade 12. As the largest comprehensive center for deaf education in Pennsylvania, WPSD provides an all-inclusive language environment specifically designed to foster fluency in both English and American Sign Language (ASL).
With campuses in Scranton, Hershey, and Pittsburgh, WPSD offers specialized learning difference programs and a highly supportive academic environment. The school maintains an impressive average class size of just 7 students, ensuring that each child receives the individualized attention necessary for their unique communication and learning needs. Beyond the classroom, students can engage in a wide range of extracurriculars, including drama, photography, chess, and various athletic programs like soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
WPSD serves a diverse student population from over 50 counties and offers programs ranging from Pre-K through post-graduate years, including summer school options. Admissions are handled on a rolling basis, providing flexibility for families navigating the transition to specialized education. The school is a member of the National Association of Private Special Education Centers and the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
| School Type | Special Education School |
| Year Founded | 1869 |
| Total Students | 254 |
| Total Classroom Teachers | 70 |
| Average Class Size | 7 |
| Grades Offered | Prekindergarten-12 |
| Admissions Director | Deborah Fell |
| Admission Deadline | None / Rolling |
| Acceptance Rate | 25 |
| Student Body Type | Co-ed |
| Percent of Students of Color | 31 |
| Sports | Basketball · Cheering · Soccer · Softball · Volleyball |
| Clubs and Organizations | Club or Organization: · Chess Club · Ecology · Fitness · Girl's Athletic Association · Photography · Arts and Music Programs: · Ceramics & Pottery · Drama · Recreational Athletic Programs: · Bowling |
| Classroom Dress Code | Casual |
| School Memberships | National Association of Private Special Education Centers · National Association for the Education of Young Children · Other school association(s) |
| Religious Affiliations | Other |
| Summer School Offered | Yes |
| Offers Post Graduate Year | Yes |
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