What do you mean by Hearing Impaired?
A student with a hearing impairment is one who has a lack of or a reduction in the ability to hear clearly. This problem may occur in the outer, middle or inner ear or along the pathway to the brain. The degree of hearing loss may range from mild to profound.
How can I tell if my child has a hearing problem?
A hearing impairment can go undetected, it is often called the “invisible” disability. When a child has any of the following characteristics, the parent should consult with their child’s doctor.
- Lack of or limited response to sound or speech
- Lack of or delayed speech and language skills
- Frequent ear infections
If I have a concern, what should I do?
- Share your observations and concerns with:
a. Your pediatrician or ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT)
b. Your child’s teacher, speech-language clinician, or the school counselor - Follow up with any recommended medical or audiological management.
- Share all information with school personnel. An audiogram within 1 year is necessary for determination of eligibility for services from the public school system. If you have concerns with obtaining this evaluation, contact your school counselor.
- If your child is age 3 to 5, contact Child Find or call 386-329-3811.
What services are available through the schools?
The St. Johns County School District has a continuum of services for students with disabilities, from ages 3-21. These services range from consultative to placement in special classes with other students with varying exceptionalities on public school campuses. The amount of time the student spends in an exceptional education class is determined by the individual student’s needs and plan.
St. Johns County School District contracts with Clarke Schools for Speech and Hearing in Jacksonville for a Pre-K auditory-oral program option.
Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing provide services to eligible students on an itinerant basis.
How will the program benefit my child?
Once in the program, the emphasis is on individualized instruction that develops language, literacy, academic and self-advocacy skills. Each year, an annual review meeting is held with the parents, the teacher and other professionals who work with your child. Together, the committee will develop an individual educational plan (IEP) to meet the needs of your child.
How can I help?
Parents are encouraged to:
- Be a team member, become involved.
- Follow audiological recommendations
- Keep ear molds and hearing aids in good working condition
- Reinforce language
- Read to your child at home
- Help your child develop a healthy self-concept
- Encourage independence
- Seek counseling, if necessary
What if my child does not qualify?
If your child is evaluated and does not qualify for the program, you may want to meet with personnel from your child’s school to discuss other options for providing appropriate accommodations.
What is the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind (FSDB)?
The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is located in St. Augustine, FL. Residential and day programs are provided for eligible students Pre Kindergarten through 12th grade. Information on the school and enrollment criteria is available at www.fsdb.k12.fl.us
