Sarah Huck
MSDE, CED
Teacher of the Deaf
Welcome to the Virginia J. Browning Primary School
CID’s challenging educational program for 5- to 12-year-olds features small class sizes, individualized instruction and hands-on learning. We use Missouri Learning Standards and commercial curricula found in general education classrooms to align academic goals and learning objectives for our students. Our expert knowledge of our students’ language facility enables us to tailor academic instruction to maximize each individual’s understanding and success.
Our master’s-level teachers have many years of experience weaving listening, language, reading and speech instruction into science, social studies and math. Physical education, art, music, media literacy and social skills complete our elementary school-aged program.
Our students work hard, have fun and experience success
CID’s highly trained, talented teachers work together with expert pediatric audiologists, speech-language pathologists and other skilled support professionals. This enables them to build on individual strengths, to focus on the development of the whole child and to give each student opportunities to shine in the CID primary school.
“We moved from Utah to St. Louis so my daughter could attend CID. It was, without a doubt, the best choice we have ever made.”
Meet the Team
"CID is the most warm hearted school I have ever stepped foot in."
TEAM APPROACH
The CID primary school is directed by a coordinating educator who works with the teachers to continually review and revise each child’s educational program. Using tools that include daily language samples and a speech-language pathologist’s (SLP’s) formal assessment of receptive and expressive skills, the teachers stay attuned to each child’s progress and pursue precise educational goals.
In addition to SLPs and parents, CID teachers work closely with our pediatric audiologists, occupational therapist, principal and family support specialist to provide a rewarding educational experience for each student.
MAINSTREAM READINESS
Preparing students to attend general education schools involves getting them used to homework, giving them greater independence with school-related tasks, and engaging them in discussions about school and social life with their typically hearing peers. Family conferences and report cards are part of the process.
CID offers a Ready, Set, Go! program for parents and caregivers of students preparing to enter general education programs.
FAMILY SUPPORT
The CID primary school has an open door policy. Parents and caregivers are welcome to observe in classrooms any time if they schedule it in advance. We invite parents to attend two conferences a year, during which we review their child’s progress and set goals together. Parents are encouraged to communicate with the classroom teachers via email and phone. Our teachers also communicate through a dedicated log that travels from school to home.
CID families learn and connect with one another through our Hearing from the Heart educational program as well as a variety of social opportunities, school events and family outings. Our family support specialist is available to meet with parents and caregivers as needed.
“Our son is going on his 5th year at CID and we couldn’t be happier. He is talking up a storm with his peers.”