Mission of
Kendall Demonstration Elementary School and
Model Secondary School for the Deaf

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Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES) and the Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) serve deaf and hard of hearing students from infancy through high school. We are the federally mandated demonstration schools of the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center, at Gallaudet University.

KDES/MSSD, a community with diversity at its core, challenges each student to achieve personal excellence in academics, communication, thinking skills, emotional intelligence and life planning in order to become a self-directed, contributing member of society. Using American Sign Language and English, students are active partners in their individualized education program. We explore effective approaches to teaching and learning that we share with families and professionals throughout the country.

Belief Statements of
Kendall Demonstration Elementary School and
Model Secondary School for the Deaf

1. We believe that the development of the whole child is essential and that each child has unique interests, needs, and abilities.
   
   
2. We believe that all children who are deaf or hard of hearing can learn, achieve, and be responsible for their education.
   
   
3. We believe that a student's positive sense of self is critical for school achievement and success throughout life.
   
   
4. We believe that involved families are more effective advocates for their children.
   
   
5. We believe that a cooperative partnership among the student, family, school, and community is essential for student growth and development.
   
   
6. We believe that literacy skills are fundamental to student success.
   
   
7. We believe that an academic program should be broad, challenging, and individualized to promote a lifelong desire to learn.
   
   
8. We believe that access to ASL, English and all aspects of communication is crucial to a deaf or hard of hearing student's development.
   
   
9. We believe that acquisition of language must begin as early as possible at home and in school.
   
   
10. We believe that exposure to and experience with Deaf Culture will enrich the lives of students and their families.
    
    
11. We believe that a school community should embrace cultural diversity, a spirit of learning, mutual caring and respect.
    
    
12. We believe that competence with technology is integral to deaf and hard of hearing student's access to information and communication.

Copyright © 2002 Gallaudet University Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center
800 Florida Ave. NE
Washington, DC 20002
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