Introducing
Clerc Center
Based within the premier university for the deaf and hard of hearing, Gallaudet University, the Clerc Center researches, trains, and models best practices in the education of deaf and hard of hearing children from birth to age 21.
We work alongside families, educators, service providers, medical professionals, and state and school leaders across the country to collectively ensure students are set up for success.
Transcript
Based within the premier university for the deaf and hard of hearing, Gallaudet University, the Clerc Center researches, trains, and models best practices in the education of deaf and hard of hearing children from birth to age 21.
We work alongside families, educators, service providers, medical professionals, and state and school leaders across the country to collectively ensure students are set up for success.
MISSION
The Clerc Center acts as a catalyst and guide to the people and systems that shape the lives and opportunities of deaf and hard of hearing children.
VISION
We strives for a world where every deaf and hard of hearing child and their family has effortless language access, can learn without limits, and flourishes within a nurturing community from birth.
Who We Serve
The Clerc Center is home to two demostration schools on Gallaudet University’s campus in addition to a national programs and outreach division. Together, this triad creates, models, and distributes best practices in early intervention and deaf education.
Kendall Demonstration Elementary School
KDES is an accredited, tution free day school for deaf and hard of hearing students from birth through 8th grade. KDES nurtures the whole child through an inclusive, student-centered approach to learning.
Model Secondary School for the Deaf
MSSD is a prestigious, accredited, and tuition free residential high school for deaf and hard of hearing students. Serving students from across the 50 states and U.S. territories.
National Programs and Outreach
The Clerc Center's National Programs and Outreach is home to State and School Partnership Initiative (SSPI), Regional Early Acquisition of Language (REAL), Deaf Education Connections platform, and Gallaudet University Regional (GURC) Centers.
Who we serve
In compliance with the National Education of the Deaf Act of 1986, the Clerc Center was chartered to create equal opportunites for deaf children across the US and its territories.
We develop, evaluate, and share innovate curricula and teaching strategies with families and educators who serve deaf and hard of hearing students who are:
West Region 
Midwest Region 
East Region 
South Region The Clerc Center oversees and leverages Gallaudet University Regional Centers across the country to connect the deaf community with events, programs, and resources.
2030 Strategic Plan
LEARN. GROW. ENGAGE.
With “Excellence in Deaf Education” as our north star, by 2030, families and educators of deaf and hard of hearing children across the U.S. will feel confident, empowered, and deeply supported in raising and educating bilingual children.
Through their experience with the Clerc Center, they will develop a strong sense of trust and shared purpose, affirming they are not alone in their journey.
