EARLY CONNECTIONS: A SCHOOL FOR DEAF AND HEARING IMPAIRED
Pietro Belluschi’s Federal Reserve Bank Building, 907 Harvey Milk Street, Portland OR
School is challenging enough without having a auditory disability; therefore, it is important to create a learning environment that all children can thrive in, regardless of ability. Younger children are affected the most by having a hearing disability as they are still in the early stage of language development. There are many necessary components to the education of a child with hearing challenges in order for them to succeed. Onsite support and services such as learning specialists, speech and occupational therapy and audiologists are an essential part of a program for a deaf/hard of hearing student. Since each child’s needs are unique, a school dedicated to children with hearing disabilities provides students with an individualized program to allow them to realize their full potential. Families are also impacted when they are raising a child with disabilities. One of the largest issues is cost, even with insurance, it is expensive to pay for audiologists, therapists and specialized schools and unfortunately not all services, equipment and therapies are covered by insurance. There is also the time spent transporting their child to each appointment, which can be overwhelming and take time away from work/other family members. It is also can affect the communication between the parents and the child, which can lead to a negative effect on the parent’s mental health.
The proposed elementary school for deaf and hearing impaired children will allow children a chance to succeed in school. This school will create an environment where children can positively develop while supporting the parents and making sure the entire family is getting the help they need. The school will be located in an urban setting of Portland, OR and will provide a physical learning environment tailored to the needs of its students to ensure that they will be successful learners.