Clarke Announces Summer Program for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students

The Clarke School for the Deaf/Center for Oral Education will host its 26th annual two week summer program for deaf and hard of hearing children from July 13 to 25. The program brings deaf students ages 9 to 13 together for friendships and fun. It gives students the chance to connect with other students who use hearing aids and/or cochlear implants and who may be the only deaf student in their school.

Summer program activities are led by experienced teachers of the deaf who encourage leadership and independence, while enhancing listening, communication and social skills. New this year will be the addition of young Clarke alumni who will serve as role models for the students. Limited scholarship support is available.

This year's theme, "Exploring the New Frontier" will bring the Wild West alive with activities focusing on the gold rush, colorful characters of the West like Sacajawea, Buffalo Bill and Levi Strauss, along with their amazing stories of exploration and discovery. Hands on activities will encourage students to explore and experience what it was like back in the early 1800's.

For more than 25 years Clarke has seen extraordinary friendships form when deaf children come to its campus from all over the United States. Students are beginning to explore their identity and question their place in the world. Clarke offers a unique opportunity for them to share their feelings with other children who are often going through the same experiences. For children who may not have other deaf children in their school, summer program can be an empowering experience.

Participants will live with a roommate in an air conditioned dormitory with a family-style dining room, lounges, computers and recreation rooms. Each student will be given their own Clarke e-mail account, making it easy to communicate with family and friends at home.

"Clarke's Summer Program was a breath of fresh air for our son," said Janis Wolford of her son Jared's experience. "For the first time in his life, we felt fully comfortable leaving him in someone else's care. Clarke understood his needs and offered our family incredible support and encouragement, even after Summer Program ended. Our son came back calmer and more confident -- it was truly a transforming experience."

For more information or to receive a brochure, please contact The Program Information Office at 413-584-3450 or email info@clarkeschool.org