Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf

The Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf (WPSD) is a tuition free, non-profit school with high academic expectations.
Founded in 1869, WPSD provides quality educational services and a complete extracurricular program to Deaf and hard-of-hearing children from birth through Grade 12.
Serving more than 325 students on campuses in Scranton, Hershey and Pittsburgh, we offer an all-inclusive language environment with the goal of fluency in both English and American Sign Language.
With students come from more than 50 counties, WPSD is the largest comprehensive center for deaf education in Pennsylvania.

Quick Stats (2024)

Top Rankings

Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for:

Category
Attribute
School History

School Overview

Religious Affiliation
Grades Offered
Grades Prekindergarten-12
Offers Post-Graduate Year
Yes
Learning Difference Programs
Yes
Year Founded
1869
Summer School Offered
Yes

Student Body

Total Students
265 students
Student Body Type
Co-ed
% Students of Color
27%
State avg.: 26%
Students by Grade
Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf Student By Grade

Academics and Faculty

Total Classroom Teachers
61 teachers
Student : Teacher Ratio
4:1
National avg.: 13:1
Average Class Size
7 students
Classroom Dress Code
Casual

Tuition and Acceptance Rate

Admission Deadline
None / Rolling
Admissions Director
Deborah Fell

Sports

Total Sports Offered
5 sports

Extracurriculars

Total ExtracurricularsTotal Extra-curric.
8 extracurriculars
ExtracurricularsExtra-curric.
Club or Organization:
Chess Club, Ecology, Fitness, Girl's Athletic Association, Photography

Arts and Music Programs:
Ceramics & Pottery, Drama

Recreational Athletic Programs:
Bowling

School Notes

  • The WPSD vision is for students to achieve at the same level as other children in society; to reach their highest potential in academics and citizenship; and to achieve independence, positive self-esteem and high personal aspirations.
  • WPSD offers an all inclusive communication/language environment. Communication needs are met on an individual basis with emphasis on fluency in both English and American Sign Language.
  • Over 25% of our student population has Cochlear Implants.
  • The curriculum incorporates state and national standards.
  • Mainstream opportunities are offered through a variety of local programs including the student's home school district, a local private elementary school and a public vocational training center.
  • WPSD offers a complete after school program including a fully equipped fitness center, a variety of clubs and a comprehensive athletic program.
  • Our staff includes speech language pathologists, audiologists, a school psychologist, a communication teacher, an occupational/physical therapist, guidance counselors and an art therapist.WPSD provides support services as needed.
  • The Residential Program, open to students from preschool through 12th grade, is an integral part of WPSD. The residential staff provides care and guidance in a warm yet structured environment that includes clubs, social activities and athletic programs.
  • American Sign Language classes are offered on-campus and at a variety of off-campus locations. Classes are also offered to the corporate community.
  • The Choices for Children parent-infant program provides early intervention services through home visits and on-campus activities to deaf and hard-of-hearing infants, toddlers and their families through agencies across Pennsylvania.
Source: Verified school update

Frequently Asked Questions

What sports does Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf offer?
Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf offers 5 interscholastic sports: Basketball, Cheering, Soccer, Softball and Volleyball.
What is Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf's ranking?
Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf ranks among the top 20% of private schools in Pennsylvania for: Largest student body and Oldest founding date.
When is the application deadline for Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf?
The application deadline for Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf is rolling (applications are reviewed as they are received year-round).

School Calendar

View the Western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf yearly calendar below. Note key dates such as:

Event
Date
Students dismissed at 12:30pm. Spring Break Begins
March 28, 2024 (Thursday)

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Did You Know?

The average private school tuition in Pittsburgh, PA is $13,013 for elementary schools and $20,489 for high schools (read more about average private school tuition across the country).
The average acceptance rate in Pittsburgh, PA is 94% (read more about average acceptance rates across the country).

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