Founded in 1817, the American School for the Deaf (ASD) was the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States and is the birthplace of American Sign Language. It is a world renowned leader in providing comprehensive educational programs and services for deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
ASD commissioned architect, TSKP STUDIO to design a new 55,000 sq. ft. academic facility because of the firm’s experience with unique learning environments and its reputation for bold yet harmonious design solutions. The new building, Gallaudet-Clerc Education Center, opened in the Fall of 2013 and is designed to address the unique learning style of deaf and hard of hearing children. This includes state-of-the-art amplification equipment, specific levels of lighting, a visual public address system and the latest educational interactive whiteboard technology.
In addition to specially equipped classrooms, the design features science and life skills labs, speech and occupational and physical therapy workspaces, an audiological suite, as well as a library, student health center, kitchen and cafeteria. The school serves students ages 3-21 years from New England and overseas.