This January, Texas School for the Deaf (TSD) proudly hosted the 2025 Principal’s Roundtable, a transformative event bringing together approximately 30 administrators from nearly 16 Deaf schools and programs from across the country. This gathering served as a dynamic platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation among educational leaders. Special thanks go to TSD, the TSD Alumni Association, and Gallaudet University for their generous sponsorship and unwavering support of this prestigious event.
The Roundtable officially kicked off on Wednesday, January 15, with arrivals, tours, and a dinner at MaieDay, fostering connections among attendees. The following days were filled with insightful sessions and presentations that reflected the diverse needs and aspirations of Deaf education.
On Thursday, January 16, the event commenced with an inspiring keynote by Superintendent Peter Bailey. Participants then engaged in a series of information-sharing sessions, including discussions on MAP data analysis, curriculum development, vocational rehabilitation collaboration, and soft skills training. Notable presentations, such as Ready, Set, Prep! by the National Deaf Center presented by Lore Kinast and Structuring Professional Development by Dr. Stella Egbert, highlighted innovative tools and strategies to empower Deaf students and educators alike.
Friday’s half-day program delved into critical topics like multi-tiered systems of support, high academic standards, and student-centered programs like the Ron Clark Academy House System. The event concluded with a group roundtable and a collaborative discussion on future plans, ensuring the momentum generated during the Roundtable continues to inspire progress.
As the Principal’s Roundtable coincided with the Clerc Classic, attendees also had the opportunity to celebrate Deaf athletic excellence, deepening connections within the Deaf education community.
The 2025 Principal’s Roundtable exemplified TSD’s dedication to fostering excellence and collaboration in Deaf education. We look forward to continuing this journey and creating even greater opportunities for our students and educators.