School Programs

A large perecentage of the students who graduate from CSD have gone on to colleges and universities.

Academics at CSD are cutting edge. The school adheres to the California Department of Education's Curriculum Standards. Highly qualified, credentialed teachers possess the specialized skills necessary to effectively instruct deaf and hard-of-hearing students. After 150 years of experience, research, and training, CSD uses proven methods and approaches in education. Instruction takes place in American Sign Language and English.

CSD is an accredited school that offers diplomas to graduating high school students who have passed the California High School Exit Exam and met all of the high school requirements. Graduates develop into confident college students, professionals, and employees who are able to pursue their dreams and goals.

• Early Childhood Education focuses on language acquisition and early development of the child as a whole. The program uses American Sign Language as the child's natural, primary language and English as a second language for a strong language foundation and the literacy skills necessary for lifelong success. ECE is committed to early, consistent, and meaningful communication between the deaf child and the significant others in his/her environment.
• Elementary Education provides a rich learning experience. The program promotes an environment that encourages high expectations for each child, and follows the state standards for language arts, mathematics, history-social studies, science, and visual and performing arts.
• Middle School is committed to bringing out the best in each individual child. The program adheres to a curriculum based on the state curriculum framework in daily core classes, while preparing students for high school and beyond.
• High School offers courses that include state graduation requirements, 'A to G' requirements for universities, and electives. The program offers additional courses in work readiness, physical education, and character development.
• Deaf Students with Special Needs offers a smaller class size and emphasizes support for daily life skills for grades 1-12. Employment training and job placement, on the school site and with local businesses, is offered to eligible high school age students. The program is designed for deaf students requiring additional learning support.
• Career/Technical Education offers career/technical education training and job preparation in a variety of fields. The program also offers career awareness and career exploration.
• Career Center/Transition Services offers continued education planning, career planning, job seeking skills, and employment on school site and with local businesses.
• Work Readiness Program provides work-related experience during the day, along with evening classes in the subjects that help students pass the California High School Exit Exam. The program, which works in collaboration with local community colleges, is available to continuing students who are between the ages of 18 to 21.