Sullivan D/HH Program was selected to participate in a literacy study with Oxford University in England during the school year of 2008/2009.  The materials were created especially for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children. Students make measurable progress when using the Oxford materials. We continue to have access to the Oxford literacy and math materials and assessments. These materials will continue to improve students' skills in word analysis, grammar, writing, spelling, reading, and math skills.  

Students are frequently assessed to see whether they are meeting their IEP goals and mastering learning content (standards) information and skills. I use a system called "response to intervention". If assessments show that students are making good progress, all is well. If students are not making progress, I try different instructional interventions until I find something that is more successful. Click on the underlined words "assessment information" above for a link with more details.

There is much research to indicate that the most effective way to improve reading skills is to read lots of books and other text at the appropriate reading level. Students in the Sullivan D/HH Program take a STAR reader test several times a year to determine their individual reading range. They read books in this range for independent reading in class and for homework.

Students are expected to read their Accelerated Reader (AR) and other books at their independent reading level for at least 20 minutes (for elementary and beginning readers) and 30 minutes (for  more advanced and middle grades) five nights per week. Students should actually read more than this minimum requirement if they want to make the most progress in reading. If students read an additional night, they receive extra credit. AR recommends at least 60 minutes of reading each day for students who test below grade level. Please make sure that you actually see your child reading during this time. Please do not sign the paper if you have not seen your child reading. 

Students also should have individual vocabulary tests (Fry word timed tests) to study each night. 

Science/Social studies homework is also given several times per week. Some of this homework requires a little parental assistance. Students are expected to study their vocabulary cards each night. 

Math homework is usually assigned 4-5 days a week. It is due the next day. If students get less than 80% correct on a homework assignment, they are tutored on their errors, fix them and then do the same homework lesson again, in addition to the next lesson. 

Students are also expected to study for quizzes and tests and complete other homework as assigned.  Please encourage students to use their planners to keep track of homework. Planners should be signed each day.