The Wisconsin Educational Services Program for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (WESP-DHH) is a comprehensive statewide program dedicated to supporting children and youth with hearing loss or deafblind, along with their families and educational teams. Located in Delavan, Wisconsin, WESP-DHH encompasses the Wisconsin School for the Deaf (WSD), Outreach Services, and the Wisconsin Deafblind Technical Assistance Project (WDBTAP).
Key responsibilities include:
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Residential and Day School Services: WSD provides free educational services to Wisconsin residents aged 3 to 21 with hearing loss, as specified in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). The school offers instruction in American Sign Language and English, emphasizing academic, adaptive, vocational, and social skills development. Students also have opportunities to engage in advanced placement, foreign language, or technical training courses at local schools and area technical colleges.
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Outreach Services: WESP-DHH Outreach offers a variety of programs and services to students aged 3 to 21 with hearing loss, or deafblind, their families, and educational teams. These services include consultations, Deaf and Parent Mentor Programs, educational interpreter resources, student support groups, and transition planning resources.
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Wisconsin Deafblind Technical Assistance Project (WDBTAP): WDBTAP is a federally funded initiative that provides resources and support to families, agencies, and schools serving children and youth aged from birth to 21 with combined vision and hearing loss. The project offers training, consultations, and resources to assist in the identification and service provision for students who are deafblind.
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Professional Development and Resource Provision: WESP-DHH develops and disseminates curriculum and instructional materials, provides in-service training to educators and staff, and serves as a clearinghouse for information about children with hearing loss. The program also facilitates the preparation of teachers of pupils with hearing loss by providing assistance to teacher preparation programs.
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Independent Living Skills and Summer Programs: WESP-DHH offers instruction in independent living skills and summer programs for children with hearing loss. These programs aim to enhance students' daily living capabilities and provide enriching experiences during the summer months.