Admission into the program is based on diagnostic results from several areas, including hearing level, language abilities, educational needs, and other variables. The school population reflects a diverse population, including students with a wide range of hearing abilities, as well as ethnic, racial, and language backgrounds. While the instructional language of the classroom is typically, but not exclusively, a sign-supported English system, The Rhode Island School for the Deaf recognizes and affirms the importance of Deaf culture and related linguistic issues in the development of deaf young people. Thus, the program seeks to provide individualized programs that meet the unique needs of each student.
The final decision for admission is a joint one made by the parents, the School for the Deaf and the local community through the IEP process. Any student qualifying for admission and living in the state of Rhode Island comes at no cost to the local community. Many out-of-state students attend the Rhode Island School for the Deaf, and their local community is responsible to pay the determined tuition to the State of Rhode Island.
Applications for admission and any further questions should be sent to:
Lori Dunsmore
Rhode Island School for the Deaf
1 Corliss Park
Providence, RI 02908
Voice: (401) 222-3525
TTY: (401) 222-3888
ldunsmore@rideaf.net