On July 27th, the Government of Saskatchewan announced a new early learning pilot program for preschool-aged children who are deaf and hard of hearing or connected to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing communities.
The program will be delivered through a partnership with the Saskatchewan Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services and Regina Public Schools.
Early Learning Deaf and Hard of Hearing Pilot
The Saskatchewan Ministry of Education’s Children Communicating, Connecting and in Community pilot is a program to provide high quality learning experiences and interventions for preschool-aged children who are Deaf/deaf or hard of hearing. Additionally, siblings, cousins or family friends of a similar age, as well as children of Deaf/deaf or hard of hearing individuals are encouraged to apply in order to build communication and social skills and encourage ongoing learning and interaction. The program will provide early learning experiences for preschool-aged children, placing a priority on four-year-olds and including, three-year-old children where possible.
The half-day pilot program is designed to provide an early learning environment which supports the attainment and development of language and communication skills for children who are Deaf/deaf or hard of hearing within an inclusive environment. Support will be provided through a collaborative team approach, including professionals who work to reduce communication barriers within a play-based, holistic learning environment. Children and their families will be supported to build connections within the deaf community, as well as the larger community.
Please read the Children Communicating, Connecting and in the Community brochure for additional information for families.
To apply for the program, please click and fill out the form below and email it to the Coordinator, Intensive Supports earlylearningis@rbe.sk.ca.
For more information please email or call Regina Public Schools and ask for the Coordinator, intensive supports (306.523.3000). Additional information regarding the The Children Communicating, Connecting and in Community pilot is also available through the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education.
Read the Government of Saskatchewan news release here.
