The American School for the Deaf (ASD) is the oldest school for the deaf, founded in 1817 by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc. The American School for the Deaf is committed to serving deaf and hard of hearing infants, youth and their families in development of intellect and the enhancement of quality of life utilizing specially designed instruction through an American Sign Language and English Bilingual Approach, empowering them to become educated and self-directed life-long learners. ASD offers academic programs for children aged 3-21. The school also provides a wide range of student enrichment, counseling, and after-school activities for both day and residential students. ASD offers a statewide Birth-to-Three program as well as various Outreach services. ASD’s vision is to become the premier comprehensive center providing education and resources for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, their families and educational partners in Connecticut and beyond.
ASD is located in West Hartford, a town recognized as one of the top ten towns for raising families. West Hartford residents value education, evidenced by the high quality of public and private schools. There is also much to do in West Hartford. There is a wide array of parks and recreation. There are pools and hiking trails. There are historic sites to visit as well. If shopping is on the list then Blue Back Square, located in the center of town, offers many retail stores and a variety of restaurants to satisfy everyone.