ISD’s Learning Environment & Curriculum

For many of our students, firsts happen at Iowa School for the Deaf. First best friends. First birthday party invitations. First time playing in a sport. First time feeling truly included, both inside and outside the classroom.

Many of our students find it easier to participate in class discussion with our specialized teaching staff. Often, Iowa School for the Deaf parents notice their children are more confident about themselves and are now joining sports and activities without hesitation.

Planning for life after high school starts with middle school career awareness at Iowa School for the Deaf. As students age, more career exploration is offered, such as:

• Career interest surveys, worksite field trips, guest presenters and job shadows
• On-campus jobs
• Meeting with Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselor, officed part-time on campus (students start services at 14 years old)
• Smooth post-high school transitions, may it be back home or wherever the future leads
• 4PLUS, a free transition program for students with unmet transition needs, even those who have not previously attended ISD

At Iowa School for the Deaf, we believe all students deserve access to a high-quality education that prepares them for college, career and life. This provides an overview of the standards that guide our teaching, the instructional materials we use and the ways we assess learning and engage feedback in the curriculum process.

Standards and Frameworks

All curriculum is grounded in the Iowa Core, which defines essential skills and knowledge for literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, and 21st-century skills. Our work also incorporates research-based practices in teaching and learning, including:

• Professional Learning Communities (PLCs)
• Curriculum Task Force

Adopted Instructional Materials and Textbooks

Below is a summary of the core instructional resources in use in our district. All materials were selected through a rigorous review process to ensure alignment with standards, evidence of effectiveness and usability by teachers and learners.

Assessment and Data Use

We use multiple forms of assessment to guide instruction and monitor progress:

• Statewide Assessments – Iowa Statewide Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP), Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System (NSCAS) for Nebraska residents
• District Benchmarks – Common assessments aligned to curriculum
• Formative Assessment – NWEA’s Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments and ongoing checks for comprehension in classrooms, Renaissance (Star Reading and Star Math), Fastbridge (K-6 in Literacy and Math), ACT testing for high school students

Data is reviewed in PLCs and leadership teams to identify strengths, gaps, and next steps.

Curriculum Review Cycle

ISD reviews each content area on a five-year rotating cycle to ensure the curriculum remains aligned with state standards, research, and student needs.

At Iowa School for the Deaf, our preschool program gives children the foundation they need to grow in language, confidence and curiosity. The earlier children are immersed in a language-rich environment, the stronger their communication and learning skills become — setting the stage for lifelong success.

Families can choose a schedule that fits their needs, from full-time attendance to part-time participation. Our certified early childhood educators use a curriculum aligned with national preschool standards, focusing on:

• Language and early literacy development
• Social and emotional growth
• Motor and self-help skills
• Play-based exploration and creativity

Every day combines hands-on learning, movement and fun — because learning happens best when children feel safe, connected and excited to discover.

Our elementary program builds on the joy of learning while helping each child develop strong academic and communication skills. Students learn in small classes where teachers can tailor instruction to each child’s needs and learning style.

The curriculum follows Iowa Core standards, with modifications and supports as needed. Students study reading, writing, math, science and social studies — along with:

• American Sign Language (ASL) and English language development
• Art, library and physical education
• Speech and listening therapy, as appropriate
• Guidance and social-emotional learning

Elementary students also participate in student council, clubs and youth sports, developing leadership, teamwork and independence as they move between classrooms and activities.

Middle and high school students at ISD engage in challenging academics while developing the confidence, self-advocacy and independence they need for adulthood. Teachers encourage critical thinking, creativity and real-world problem-solving in every subject.

Students follow a semester system and earn credits that meet Iowa Department of Education graduation requirements. Courses include core academics, ASL and English language development, technology, career education and electives.

Our transition program helps students prepare for college, careers and community life. Some students also choose to take classes at nearby Lewis Central High School, supported by ISD interpreters.

Outside the classroom, students can participate in athletics, clubs, leadership opportunities and campus events — all designed to build skills, friendships and pride in being part of the Bobcat community.

The ISD Post High School Program (4PLUS) supports young adults who have met all the requirements for graduation but still need additional preparation before moving fully into work, college or independent living.

Students receive individualized support in areas such as:

• Job readiness and work experience
• Community college coursework with interpreting support
• Daily living and self-advocacy skills
• Career exploration and transition planning

Our goal is to help every young adult gain the skills, confidence, and connections they need to thrive beyond school — as successful, independent members of their communities.

WEE

When offered, in the We Explore our Environment (WEE) program, ISD’s youngest students focus on social and language skills. These students do not live on campus, and do not even need to be enrolled at ISD to participate. Rather than go to a daycare or straight home after school, these students can experience an extended 90 minutes which complements their development in a fun atmosphere. 

STEAM

The Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM) program is geared toward middle school students. This program typically meets twice a week after school for 90 minutes. The focus is on educational activities in the content areas of science, technology, engineering, the arts, and math. There are thousands of potential careers and jobs in the STEAM fields, and ISD aims to provide these students with a taste of their potential futures. 

Sports

ISD elementary students (and area youth who are deaf but do not attend ISD) start building foundational skills in sports through this program. Practice for basketball and volleyball teams is held on ISD’s campus, with ISD coaches. Teams play against other youth teams in the local YMCA. The environment is fun and relaxed. Practices and games are based on season and availability.

Visit our Activities & Clubs page for a comprehensive list of sports, clubs and other activities.