Northwestern Illinois Association Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program

The NIA's DHH Programs are for students in Preschool to High School who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. The NIA Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program recognizes and supports the diversity of each student. The programs are built upon the philosophy of Total Communication (sign language, speech, visuals, AAC etc). We utilize research based practices to meet their academic, social emotional and vocational needs. We facilitate independence and self-advocacy to empower students to make successful life choices.

Our Deaf/Hard of Hearing Program consists of Teachers, Interpreters, Paraprofessionals and a Counselor who hold the proper license and certification in the state of Illinois. We also have dual certified Teacher-Interpreters who split their time between roles in order to meet student needs. All of our staff utilize sign language and spoken language to communicate with the students. The supervisor of the program is also licensed in the area of Deaf/Hard of Hearing education. We continue to build our skills through ongoing continued education courses including Illinois Teachers of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Illinois Service Resource Center and internal professional development.