Hearing Impaired Services

"Hearing Impairment" is defined under federal law as "an impairment of hearing, whether permanent or fluctuating, that adversely affects a child's educational performance but that is not included under the definition of deafness". "Deafness" is defined under federal law as "a hearing impairment that is so severe that the child is impaired in processing linguistic information through hearing, with or without amplification that adversely affects a child's educational performance".

A variety of services are available for students with hearing impairments such as audiology services, speech development training, language, academic, and auditory training, and comprehensive screenings and evaluations. Service delivery options include classroom-based programming, individual and small group instruction, team teaching, and consultation

Screenings

The Bismarck Special Education Department assists other District staff in conducting both mass and selective screenings. Mass screenings, which are activities designed to identify potential concerns regarding hearing, are conducted at the beginning of the school year for all students after their parents are notified. Hearing screenings are conducted in preschool and grades K, 1, and 2.

Selective screenings are the same as mass screenings except that specific students are identified rather than entire grades and classes of students. Parental consent must be obtained before staff conduct selective screenings. If, after conducting a screening, staff have concerns about a student's hearing, parents will be notified of the need for another screening or further assessment.

For more information about these services, contact Linda Hoag at 701-323-4002.