School Program
Full-Time Instruction in a School for the Deaf
Our Longmeadow Campus provides a center-based immersion environment in which deaf and hard of hearing students can learn together in an accessible setting. The campus offers a developmentally appropriate curriculum for students ages 3-22 that is aligned with the Massachusetts Curriculum Framework and adapted for deaf and hard of hearing students.
Total Communication Approach
WRSD employs a Total Communication approach in our school programs. Individual communication needs of each student are based on comprehensive and ongoing assessment. WRSD utilizes American Sign Language, spoken and written English, spoken English in combination with sign support as well as any and all augmentative communication tools deemed appropriate by the child’s IEP team.
Occupational & Physical Therapy
Occupational and Physical Therapy services are provided through third party contractors in accordance with the students' IEP.
School to Work Program
For students who wish to pursue vocational studies, WRSD offers a comprehensive School to Work Program that begins at age 14 with a job skills class and prevocational training. Internships are offered through various employers in surrounding communities. The goal of the program is to provide a successful transition from school to employment.
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Partnership Campus & Bay Path University Preschool Site
The Partnership Campus within East Longmeadow Public Schools provides our deaf and hard of hearing students with the unique opportunity to attend school with hearing peers while receiving a Willie Ross School education in one of our specialized classrooms. This approach at the Partnership Campus combines the social and educational benefits of mainstream education with the individualized instruction and communication services provided at a school for the deaf.
Willie Ross School has licensed teachers of the deaf and support staff at the Partnership Campus schools, including on-site audiologists, physical education instructors and counselors. The full range of academic curricula is drawn from the Massachusetts Curriculum Framework and is adapted for deaf and hard of hearing students.
Willie Ross students interact with public school students during lunch, recess, mainstreamed classes, and other activities.
The partnership campus includes Mountain View Elementary School, Birchland Park Middle School and East Longmeadow High School.
In addition, WRSD's preschool program is located at Bay Path University's Theinert Hall in Longmeadow, two quick miles from WRSD's main campus.
School Program Audiology Services
The Blake Audiology Clinic, located at our Longmeadow campus, offers comprehensive hearing health care for School Program and Outreach Services.
Drs. Joy Guay and Alexis Simons provide audiological services to students in our School Program.
School Program Audiology
- Diagnostic hearing evaluations
- Communication needs assessment
- Hearing aid consultation, fittings and orientation
- Hearing aid adjustments, cleanings, and repairs
- Hearing assistive technology services
- Management of cochlear implants
Audiologists
