Metro Deaf School

Metro Deaf School (MDS), located in Saint Paul, Minnesota, is a tuition-free, public charter school specifically designed to meet the unique linguistic and academic needs of Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. The school distinguishes itself through a bilingual-bicultural educational philosophy, where American Sign Language (ASL) and English are both treated as foundational languages. By prioritizing ASL as the primary language of instruction, MDS ensures that students have full, direct access to the curriculum, social interactions, and extracurricular activities without the communication barriers often found in mainstream environments.

Beyond its academic focus, Metro Deaf School serves as a vital community hub that fosters a strong sense of identity and belonging for its students. The school emphasizes the development of deaf culture, self-advocacy, and social-emotional growth, creating an environment where students can thrive as independent learners. With a commitment to inclusivity and equity, MDS integrates rigorous academic standards with specialized support services, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for post-secondary education, the workforce, and active participation in both the deaf and hearing communities.