Language Philosophy

The Children’s Center for Communication and Beverly School for the Deaf recognize that all individuals and families have the ability to acquire knowledge and the right to develop language by having full access to a complete language or set of systems.  Equal value and respect is given to all language and communication choices.  By providing a supportive, yet challenging learning environment, each individual is given the tools to help maximize his/her potential.

In order to help students, families, and the community realize this philosophy, The Children’s Center for Communication and Beverly School for the Deaf will ensure the following principles in the areas of communication, instruction & assessment, family & community, and culture.

Communication

To ensure individual success with academics and language skill development, CCC/BSD:

  • Respects each diverse language system equally.
  • Believes in a philosophy that embraces American Sign Language, English, and other communication systems.
  • Supports access to English as provided through voice, sign, print and preferred picture and voice technologies.
  • Routinely assesses and monitors each individual’s progress in developing a first language.
  • Makes a distinction between social and academic communication modes among a variety of settings.
  • Recognizes communication modes may change as the individual acquires new skills.
  • Promotes opportunities for peer communication while exposing individuals to Deaf adults, appropriate communication role models, and mentors.
  • Promotes access across all environments.



Instruction/Assessment

CCC/BSD professionals include: teachers, paraprofessionals, therapists, nursing staff, maintenance personnel and administrators who can all communicate effectively.  By providing these services and programs, CCC/BSD:  

  • Ensures all students are given challenging and comprehensive instruction aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks in developmentally appropriate ways.
  • Offers a safe learning environment that promotes creativity and critical thinking.
  • Assesses and reports individual academic and social development in a routine manner.
  • Promotes school/family collaboration in meeting the whole needs of the child.
  • Utilizes current research and methodologies to support best practices in education.
  • Believes each student can develop and achieve individual talents and life skills.


Family / Community

BSD recognizes that strong families and the community are critical to the positive development of young people.  To support this, CCC/BSD:

  • Provides unbiased information and support.
  • Involves and engages parents as active participants in their child’s communication development.
  • Provides resources for families, individuals, community, and professionals.
  • Promotes and accepts a broad and diverse community of learners.
  • Provides a place for parents, families, and the community to interact in the spirit of a social, academic, and enriching atmosphere.


Culture

BSD recognizes Deaf students and adults as culturally and linguistically distinct.  BSD:

  • Preserves the heritage of the local Deaf community.
  • Educates children and families about Deaf life.
  • Respects cultural and educational diversity.
  • Facilitates interaction among Deaf and Hearing individuals.
  • Supports students with self-actualization and identity, including, but not limited to Deaf or special needs rights, self advocacy, and self reliance.
  • Recognizes technological advances for living.