New York School for the Deaf

The New York School for the Deaf, affectionately known as "Fanwood," is a private nonprofit organization with the EIN 13-1740477. It is the second oldest school for the deaf in the United States and the oldest in New York State, having been established in 1817.

History

Initially located in lower Manhattan, the school underwent several relocations within Manhattan before moving to its current campus in White Plains in 1937. The school was originally a boys-only military institution but began admitting girls in 1954. Over the years, NYSD has evolved to provide a comprehensive educational environment that supports the unique needs of its students.

Mission and Vision

The New York School for the Deaf is dedicated to maximizing the whole person potential of each student through comprehensive, rigorous educational programs and services. It operates with a mission to provide a bilingual environment using American Sign Language (ASL) and English, aiming for academic excellence and personal growth. The school views deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals from a cultural and linguistic perspective rather than a disability model.

Educational Programs

NYSD offers a range of educational services, including early intervention, pre-school, elementary, middle school, and high school programs. The school utilizes a bilingual-bicultural approach, emphasizing ASL and English to ensure that students achieve both academic success and cultural identity. The curriculum includes subjects like math, science, language arts, social studies, physical education, art, and technology, aligned with New York State Department of Education standards.

Student Services and Activities

In addition to academic programs, NYSD provides opportunities for vocational training and extracurricular activities. Students participate in work-based learning experiences, community outreach, and competitions such as the Rochester Institute of Technology's science fair and math competitions. The school also fosters a strong sense of social justice and advocacy among its students.

Community Engagement

NYSD collaborates with multiple stakeholders, including families, school districts, the deaf community, research institutions, and philanthropic organizations to achieve its educational goals. This collaboration reflects its commitment to being an exemplary resource for deaf and hard-of-hearing students nationwide.

Technology Integration

The school integrates modern technology to enhance learning experiences and prepare students for careers in the 21st century. This includes the use of various educational technologies to support learning in STEAM fields—science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

Awards and Achievements

NYSD students have achieved notable successes in various competitions, such as winning awards in the Rocky Mountain Deaf Film Festival and RIT's Virtual Science Fair, demonstrating the effectiveness of the school's educational approach in fostering academic excellence and creative talent.

STEAM and Language Arts Focus

In recent years, NYSD has emphasized STEAM education, incorporating ASL as a core component of its arts program. This integration supports the development of critical thinking and lifelong learning skills, crucial in today's rapidly changing technological landscape.

Impact and Legacy

For over 200 years, the New York School for the Deaf has been a leader in providing quality education to deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Its graduates have achieved success in various fields, including science, education, business, and the arts, reflecting the school's enduring commitment to empowering these individuals to become productive contributors to society.