Founded in 1908 by the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the Sisters of Charity of Seton Hill, DePaul School for Hearing and Speech has been providing quality auditory oral education for children who are deaf or hard of hearing for nearly 100 years We believe that children who are deaf and hard of hearing have the potential to develop listening and spoken language skills as the foundation for lifelong literacy and intellectual growth.
Following the values and traditions of our founders, the mission of DePaul School for Hearing and Speech is to teach each child who is deaf or hard of hearing to listen, speak, and learn.
Our children enter the educational mainstream with the foundation to succeed.
DePaul School for Hearing and Speech is one of only 46 schools worldwide, and the only one in western Pennsylvania, using the auditory/oral method of teaching.
Auditory/oral education teaches children with hearing loss to listen and talk.
The goal is to give children the necessary spoken language skills to be successful in the mainstream of education and function independently in the hearing world.
Quick Stats (2025)
- Top Ranked PA School
- School Type: Special Education School
- Grades: Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
- Enrollment: 38 students
- Application Deadline: None / Rolling
- Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Top Rankings
De Paul School For Hearing & Speech ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:
Category
Attribute
School History
School Overview
School Type
School Membership(s)School Assoc.
Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-Kindergarten
Year Founded
1908
School Calendar
Student Body
Total Students
38 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
38%
State avg.: 27%
Students by Grade

Academics and Faculty
Total Classroom Teachers
8 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
5:1
National avg.: 13:1
Tuition and Acceptance Rate
Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Application URL
School Notes
- School Motto: Listening. Speaking. Learning Together.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is De Paul School For Hearing & Speech's ranking?
De Paul School For Hearing & Speech ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for De Paul School For Hearing & Speech?
The application deadline for De Paul School For Hearing & Speech is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).
In what neighborhood is De Paul School For Hearing & Speech located?
De Paul School For Hearing & Speech is located in the Shadyside neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA. There are 6 other private schools located in Shadyside.
School Reviews
5 1/25/2018
Saw first hand what can be achieved through DePaul !!! Highly recommend this school.
Endorse De Paul School For Hearing & Speech. Endorsements should be a few sentences in length. Please include any comments on:
- Quality of academic programs, teachers, and facilities
- Availability of music, art, sports and other extracurricular activities
- Academic or athletic awards
Recent Articles

June 09, 2025
Is It Easier to Land a Private School Job When You're Already Employed?Is it easier to land a private school job when you're already employed? This article breaks down employer biases, networking advantages, and negotiation leverage—plus the latest hiring trends in independent schools. If you’re considering a move, here’s how to maximize your position.

June 09, 2025
How to Secure a Private School Job When You're Unemployed Without the StigmaFinding a private school job while unemployed can be tough, but it doesn't have to hold you back. This article breaks down networking strategies, ways to stand out, and smart approaches to keep your confidence strong. Learn how to turn setbacks into strengths and secure the right opportunity—without the stigma.

June 09, 2025
The Private School Job Hunt: Insider Tips for Employed & Unemployed EducatorsNavigating the private school job market? Whether you're employed or unemployed, the right strategy can make all the difference. This article breaks down essential steps to keep your resume sharp, expand your network, and stay visible in the education community. Learn insider tips to position yourself for success in private schools.