National Association of the Deaf

The National Association of the Deaf (NAD) submitted comments to the U.S. Department of Education in response to the Notice of Request for Comments and Recommendations on Regulatory Issues Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

The NAD asked the Department to implement rules ensuring that deaf and hard of hearing children’s language and communication skills are assessed and that they receive educational programming and services designed to develop their language, communication (expressive and receptive), and other academic skills.

"Too many deaf and hard of hearing children are denied basic language development and communication access in schools," commented Rosaline Crawford, NAD Staff Attorney. "Without language and communication access, children cannot learn.  New regulations should make it clear that language and communication barriers will not be tolerated."

The NAD also urged the Department to ensure that that parental consent is informed consent, by providing families with complete and unbiased information about hearing loss and the potential benefits from hearing aids, cochlear implants, and other assistive devices; speech and auditory therapies; sign language and cued language services; and interpreting services to help children who are deaf or hard of hearing access and benefit from the educational program.

Individuals may view the NAD’s comments at:
http://www.nad.org/IDEA