National Association of the Deaf

The NAD recently wrote to the U.S. Congress urging appropriation of funds for a national study to be conducted by a commission on the education of the deaf. Congress authorized the study in the amendments to the Education of the Deaf Act which were enacted in August 2008 as part of the Higher Education Opportunities Act.

Specifically, the study would identify barriers to successful postsecondary education and employment for deaf individuals. This also includes factors that contribute to successful postsecondary education experiences and employment. The NAD was instrumental in getting the provision for this study included in the Education of the Deaf Act.

In 1988, the first Commission on the Education of the Deaf (COED) issued a comprehensive and far-reaching report to the U.S. President and the U.S. Congress which included 52 recommendations that would enhance outcomes and quality of life for deaf and hard of hearing persons. Many of these recommendations have since been implemented and have had the desired result. However, significant challenges remain and no comparable comprehensive study has been undertaken since. It is critical to assess the status of education for deaf and hard of hearing children and young adults, and to assess its impact on higher education and employment.

Click here to read the NAD letter.