Mission
Serving BC’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing community in providing best life chances for its young people. Working as a part of the Burnaby School District team, the BC School for the Deaf strives to develop to the full learning potential and positive self-identity of every student. While value is given to Deaf heritage, each student is encouraged to become a responsible, contributing member of the Deaf and hearing communities.
Philosophy
The BC School for the Deaf recognizes both American Sign Language and English as languages of instruction for Deaf students. The school believes that all students:
· Have the right to learn and be respected in a positive school climate
· Learn best in an environment that provides clear and effective communication
· Have access to a wide variety of programs and services
· Develop potential through exposure to role models in the Deaf community
· Have the right to be themselves as Deaf individuals
Services
The program offers a full range of learning opportunities and educational options to meet the diverse needs of Deaf and hard-of-hearing students.
All instruction is supported by qualified Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing who are trained to provide accessible and inclusive education.
Students benefit from the presence of adult Deaf role models who help foster positive identity development and cultural connection.
A comprehensive support team is available to ensure student success. This team includes American Sign Language (ASL) specialists, interpreters, and intervenors, as well as counselors, educational assistants, and learning support teachers.
Additional support is provided by professionals such as an audiologist, speech-language pathologist, youth and child-care workers, and behaviour specialists. These services are coordinated in partnership with the Burnaby School District.