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More than 100 students participated in the 3rd Annual Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) Carnival featuring a variety of games, concessions, and even a cakewalk with a strobe light instead of music so that all deaf and hard-of-hearing students could participate regardless of their hearing abilities.
The carnival is a fun way for DHH kids to make connections with other DHH kids and for our older students to serve as role models for the younger kids. Hearing loss is considered a low-incidence disability and although we have more than 300 kids with hearing loss that are supported through an IEP (individualized education program) or a 504 plan, many of them don't get the opportunity to interact with other DHH students.
Parents expressed their gratitude for the opportunity for their child to attend a DHH-specific event and connect with other kids "just like them." Many signed up to share email addresses in order to make connections over the summer. Our plan is to identify a lead parent in each level to help coordinate and lead a summer activity/activities for kids/families to continue to build relationships.
Thanks to the DCSD Audiology Team who coordinated and ran the event, which was funded through donations. Staff from DCSD’s Early Childhood Department, and students from Arrowwood Elementary, Buffalo Ridge Elementary, Cherokee Trail Elementary, Eagle Ridge Elementary, Fox Creek Elementary, Gold Rush Elementary, Cimarron Middle School, Cresthill Middle School, Douglas County High School, Legend High School, Meadow View Elementary, Mountain Ridge Middle School, Mountain Vista High School, Pine Lane Elementary, Rock Canyon High School, Chaparral High School, Rocky Heights Middle School, Ranch View Middle School, Siera Middle School, Summit View Elementary, American Academy Charter School, Parker Performing Arts School, and Renaissance Expeditionary Magnet School attended the event at Chaparral High School.