August 27, 2012

Deaf/HH Students: Self Advocacy Can Make a Difference

It makes me smile when my deaf and hard of hearing students start to speak up for themselves at school. I know for some of them it is scary and difficult. It is not fun or easy for some of them to do this in front of other students.

The ones who are advocating for themselves have told me that it makes their lives a little easier. They don't have to wait until I get to the school to talk with them and their teachers.

I am so proud of one of my high school students who, at open house, told all of her teachers about her hearing loss and how they can accommodate her. They were really impressed with her. By the time I went to talk with them about her, they were prepared. They had some idea about how she hears and what hearing device she uses. They knew she required closed captions and where she should sit. It certainly made my job easier.

Self advocacy can make a difference in the lives of deaf and hard of hearing students. I will continue to encourage them to speak up and to learn more about how they can advocate for themselves while at school.

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Related Posts:

One Advantage of Being Mainstreamed According to a Deaf Student

Why it is Necessary for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Students to Self Advocate


 

1 comment:

  1. That could make a big difference in their self. If those hearing impaired persons will stand on their own, would be proud of themselves despite their conditions, would still have a social life after all, that could still make their life complete and enjoyable.

    ReplyDelete

Keep it civil.