The PACES program at the American for the Deaf (ASD) is only one of two in the country. The PACES (Positive Attitude Concerning Education and Socialization) Residential Treatment Program addresses the specific needs of deaf and hard-of-hearing children with emotional and behavioral challenges and hearing non-verbal students on the spectrum. Breaking ground on two new one-of-a-kind dormitories for the ASD’s PACES program is a cause for celebration. Nowhere else in the country has a facility like this been built.

Designed by Tai Soo Kim, the single-story dorms prioritize community by allocating students based on age, gender, and need. The dorms will be bright, with plenty of access to daylight. There will be a sensory room for autistic students to have a place to go and relax when needed. A life skills space, kitchen, and bedrooms will teach students essential daily independent living skills.

“In the deaf culture, we rely heavily on our vision and open sight lines, and so the open design concept in these dorms will allow us to appropriately supervise our students moving forward,” Bravin said. “It will also be bright with plenty of light and windows to allow for open communication and visible access to siding in those spaces.”

Read more about the Groundbreaking Ceremony: Hartford Courant - American School for the Deaf Groundbreaking Ceremony

Founded in 1817, the American School for the Deaf is a world-renowned leader in providing comprehensive educational programs and services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, ages 3 to 22, grades Pre-K to Post-HS.  ASD is located on North Main Street in West Hartford, Connecticut.

BBE is serving as the Construction Manager for this project.

Read the full case study HERE. 

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