Mission and Beliefs
The mission and belief statements for the demonstration schools were developed through a community-wide engagement process and approved by the Gallaudet Board of Trustees
Kendall Demonstration Elementary School and Model Secondary School for the Deaf are national demonstration schools for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Our schools are communities rich in unique perspectives and lived experiences, committed to providing a welcoming and collaborative environment through a rigorous and innovative bilingual program. Students achieve personal, social, and educational excellence, and thrive in an environment where American Sign Language (ASL) and English are equally valued. Students graduate ready to transition to post-secondary education, training and/or work and to be self-determined, engaged citizens prepared to contribute meaningfully to a dynamic and interconnected world.
Belief Statements
Educating the
Whole Student
We believe in educating the whole Deaf and Hard of Hearing student by nurturing their unique abilities, honoring individual identities, and fostering a strong sense of self that empowers them for lifelong success.
Student Learning
and Success
We believe Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, supported by high expectations and engaging work, can thrive and succeed. Educational, student life, and extracurricular activities should challenge and nurture lifelong learning within a stimulating and motivating bilingual environment that maximizes students’ abilities.
Linguistic Proficiency
and Cultural enrichment
We believe early, consistent, and equal access to ASL and English is vital to the development of Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, and that exposure to ASL and Deaf culture enriches their lives and fosters a sense of belonging.
Family and community Involvement
We believe informed, involved families/adults-at-home and collaborative partnerships with Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, schools, and communities are key to student success and growth.
Collaborative and Technologically Competent Environment
We believe exposure and use of evolving technology is necessary for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students' access to education. A collaborative, welcoming environment--paired with meaningful extracurricular experiences--fosters leadership, independence, mutual respect, and growth.
Positive teachers and staff role models
We believe highly trained teachers and staff serve as essential role models by demonstrating leadership, cultural engagement, academic excellence, and professionalism while inspiring Deaf and Hard of Hearing students to achieve their full potential and celebrate their individual strengths.
Profile of a Graduate
Graduate Outcomes
Communication
Graduates demonstrate competency in both ASL and English, expressing their ideas effectively, listening actively, and asking insightful questions.
Content Knowledge
Graduates have post-secondary plans that enable them to navigate their paths, achieve their goals, and reach their full potential. They are empowered to apply their educational and personal experiences across a range of settings.
character
Graduates exhibit a strong sense of responsibility. They collaborate effectively and demonstrate emotional intelligence, enabling them to build supportive, respectful relationships and navigate a variety of social settings.
Critical Thinking
Graduates demonstrate dynamic and creative thinking skills that support lifelong learning, adaptability, and thoughtful decision-making.
Culture awareness and engagement
Graduates are prepared to thrive in a complex, interconnected world. They engage thoughtfully with a variety of people and perspectives, and they help create environments where everyone feels respected and valued.
