Conference Addresses Language Deprivation in Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students
More than 300 educators, parents, students and professionals gathered in Michigan for a three-day conference addressing language deprivation among deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children. The event, the first of its kind in Michigan, was organized by North View Public Schools, CWood Professional Development and Kalamazoo Valley Community College in the fall.
The conference focused on the causes, impacts and remediation of language deprivation, emphasizing early accessible language, particularly sign language, and its essential role in cognitive, social and academic development.
Weekend Presentations
The conference opened Friday with Sanjay Gulati, Ph.D. who explained how language deprivation affects brain development and long-term outcomes.
On the second day, Wyatte Hall, Ph.D. examined language deprivation and the persistent misconception that American Sign Language is inferior to spoken English. Afternoon breakout sessions covered accessible language strategies, meaningful Individualized Education Program development and more. The day concluded with a performance by Sebi’Art’s Sebastien Ianno.
On the third day, keynote speaker Zaineb Abdulla delivered a presentation about her nonprofit’s work providing sign language instruction, audiology services and hearing technology to deaf refugees worldwide. A panel moderated by Kenya Lowe, director of Michigan’s Division on Deaf, DeafBlind and Hard of Hearing, featured Teddy Dorsette III, Alayna Lail, Chase Magsig and Bretagne Whitford.
Impact and Highlights
Fundraising raised more than $1,500 for Deaf Defy, supporting services for deaf children in refugee camps. An all-star team of nationally certified interpreters supported the event, along with DI Abbey Moreland.
Looking Ahead
Organizers said they’re already seeing the conference influence lessons and final projects across ASL and interpreter training programs. They hope the information empowers future professionals to better support DHH children.
“We wanted parents, educators and professionals to leave with practical tools and hope,” said organizer and Valley faculty member Jamie Hunerjager.
Organizers say they are thrilled with the success of the conference and hope to organize another in the future.
Partnerships and Acknowledgments
The event was made possible through collaboration among Kalamazoo Valley, the Jim Gilmore Jr. Foundation, the KVCC Foundation, the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, SigningPros Inc. and North View Public Schools.
Organizers also thank our Kalamazoo Valley staff for behind-the-scenes support, including Billy Reynolds, Dillon Leftwich, Sherry Hess, Jessica Potter, Stefanie Kingseed, Bill Gould-McElhone, Lexie Kobb, Steven Crawford, Aaron Snead, Joel Larson, Mason Claussen, Judd Mattimore, Tyler Deau, Aubrey Rodgers, Ashley Boza, Rachel Swearingen and student volunteer Lucas Hargar.
Volunteers included deaf artist Chrissy Shively, advocate Linda Sykora, ASL model Mark Ostrander and numerous students. Kalamazoo Valley’s Ashley Boza coordinated swag and gifts; Rachel Swearingen managed volunteers; Tanya Timmerman served as MC; and Aubrey Rodgers provided photography and videography.