Rhode Island School for the Deaf students are offered several mainstream opportunities as part of their educational program.
The RI School for the Deaf recognizes that our students need to gain experience interacting with hearing children and adults in preparation for full participation in the greater RI community. We encourage parents to involve their children in a variety of community-based programs at a very early age. Our pre-school and early elementary classes often work with students and teachers from other schools on projects. As students grow, we offer more formal academic and vocational programs to supplement their course work at RISD.
Community Preparatory School
For thirteen years, RI School for the Deaf and Community Prep School have worked together, successfully mainstreaming deaf and hard of hearing students. RISD works with the participating communities to ensure that students have the support services necessary to take advantage of CP's rigorous academic program in grades four to eight.
East Providence High School & Career Technical Center
Academic and vocational mainstreaming opportunities for high school students are offered at EPHS and EPCTC. Presently many students from different communities are mainstreamed together in small groups, using the resources coordinated by the School for the Deaf, involving teachers, interpreters, and tutors.
Shared Programs with the Local Community
Some students elect to be mainstreamed in their own communities. Currently we have students participating in shared programs with Lincoln High School, Burrillville High School, Warwick Veterans High School, North Smithfield High School, and Chariho High & Middle School. RISD staff work with the communities to coordinate schedules and support services.