Language-First Developmental Model

Offers specialized educational programs and supportive services designed to help deaf students achieve their maximum potential through tailored academic and developmental support.

Advocates for blind, deaf, and severely physically disabled children in New York State and serves as a resource to promote best practices in their education.

Operates an Alternative class setting and the Special Needs Achievement Program (SNAP) for elementary students with severe and multiple disabilities, using an individualized, hands-on learning approach tailored to student needs.

Conducts at least four fire drills annually to ensure safety preparedness and maintains a safe, healthy, and positive school environment for all students.

Maintains institutional accreditation through the Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf (CEASD), having been re-accredited in 2024.

Organizes community service opportunities for students before graduation, including visiting nursing homes, feeding the poor, and cleaning local communities to foster civic responsibility.

Uses ParentSquare as the centralized communication platform for delivering messages, information, and emergency alerts to the school community, having transitioned from Remind for the 2026-2027 school year.

Provides extracurricular opportunities including music performances, athletics, and family activities. Hosts a Sports Hall of Fame event to recognize athletic achievements and collaborates on theatrical productions with IRT Theater, Brooklyn Collaborative Studies, and Lexington School for the Deaf.

Provides a residential program for approximately one-third of its student population, offering a home-like environment from Monday through Thursday evenings to support student learning and well-being.

Produces weekly morning video announcements through Bison News and a daily 'Sign of the Day' instructional video series led by an ASL specialist to promote language development and school engagement.

Offers a comprehensive educational program for Deaf students from Preschool through 5th Grade and beyond, using accessible communication methods and integrating language development across core and special subjects. Ensures alignment with New York State curriculum standards and participation in state assessments.

Delivers on-site Speech and Language Therapy for all elementary students as specified in their IEPs, along with Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Counseling, and Adapted Physical Education. Integrates therapists into classroom support teams to collaborate with teachers on student needs.

Recognizes alumni who have made significant contributions to the Deaf community and society through formal acknowledgment and events.

Redesigned and is installing a new playground at St. Mary's School for the Deaf, with construction planned to enhance student recreational facilities.

Hosts free online and in-person workshops on topics such as managing screen time and back-to-school stressors, led by clinicians and researchers, with live captioning in up to 35 languages.

Runs a free Saturday Program for deaf and hard-of-hearing children ages 5 and up, offering activities, events, field trips, and caregiver groups to support social and educational development.

Provides in-person academic instruction for deaf students, operating as the largest school for deaf students in New York. The program emphasizes a language-rich environment to prepare students for future success.

Runs an athletic program promoting physical fitness, wellness, character development, and self-confidence, including participation in the ESDAA Annual Tournament and maintaining a history of championship achievements.