The Influences of Deaf Culture on School Culture: A Case Study of a State School for the Deaf

• In Event: Roundtable Session 79
  In Roundtable Session: Culturally Responsive Schooling

Abstract

Schools for the Deaf serve as sites of cultural formation and maintenance for the Deaf community, and the school culture is inevitably influenced by Deaf Culture. Surprisingly,there is limited research on the organizational culture and leadership practices in such schools. This ethnographic study of a school for the Deaf identified important themes that should guide future research: conflict and convergence around "Deaf Culture," the student experience of becoming part of Deaf Culture, and culturally responsive leadership.

Authors

• Catherine Ann O'Brien, Gallaudet University

• Peggy L. Placier, University of Missouri