Hello, and welcome to BCSD, the British Columbia School for the Deaf. I am Catherine Bennett, K–12 Principal. I am honored to serve as the first Deaf principal in our school’s 100+ year history.

This is an inspiring moment for all Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. My lived experience and deep understanding of Deaf language, culture, history, and identity allow me to support our students in thriving and achieving success. My heart is truly for our students.

This elementary classroom in K-7 is designed as a Deaf-centered learning environment where students learn through play and exploration. It includes sensory-rich and visually engaging materials, and students are consistently exposed to American Sign Language (ASL) alongside visual English, with words and labels displayed throughout the classroom to support reading and writing.

Our teaching reflects 21st-century practices rather than traditional rows of desks. Students work in groups, developing critical and creative thinking, collaboration, and communication skills. After teacher-led instruction, students rotate through a variety of tasks, engaging in project- and inquiry-based learning. Our blended approach integrates subjects such as math, science, technology, social studies, reading and writing, and ASL, fostering coordination and connection across all areas of learning.

• ASL classes are in an ASL environment, similar to regular classrooms for all students.
• Oral classes are for hard-of-hearing students who primarily use speech in the classroom.

Students have the option to split their time, ½ in ASL and ½ in Oral classes depending on their preference. We also provide a mainstream program for students who want to take classes with hearing students.

So, in fact, there are three programs: ASL, Oral, and mainstream, giving students choices based on their needs and interests.