Families Concerned About Future of Program for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students at Oakdale Elementary
Source: https://www.wtol.com/
Parents of students at Oakdale Elementary in Toledo Public Schools (TPS) are expressing concerns about the discontinuation of the deaf and hard-of-hearing program at the school for the upcoming academic year. They have received calls from TPS staff members informing them of this decision, prompting worries about the impact on their children’s education.
Shina Ward, a mother whose daughter has attended Oakdale since preschool, was informed that the program might not be available next year. She was offered the option for her daughter to remain at Oakdale if transportation could be provided, or to consider a school in Michigan offering deaf education.
However, Ward feels unsettled by the lack of clarity regarding the reasons behind this decision. She worries about the potential impact on her daughter’s education and social integration, particularly regarding access to necessary equipment and support from teachers. Another parent, Jamie Kraus, emphasizes the unique learning environment and positive experiences her daughters have had at Oakdale, expressing concerns about replicating such an environment elsewhere.
Despite these concerns, Ward plans to enroll her daughter at Oakdale for the next school year, highlighting her appreciation for the school and its staff.
Image Source: Rock Hill School District
