Question 1

What is Darden-Perry Academy?

Accepted Answer

Darden-Perry Academy is a proposed tuition-free public charter school in Wilmington, North Carolina, designed to serve a diverse community of learners. Our educational model combines strong academics with English and American Sign Language (ASL), giving students the opportunity to develop communication skills in two languages while learning together in an inclusive environment.

Question 2

Is Darden-Perry Academy a school only for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing students?

Accepted Answer

No. Darden-Perry Academy is being designed as an inclusive public charter school for all students.Our goal is to bring hearing, Deaf, and Hard-of-Hearing students together in one learning community where differences in communication become opportunities for connection, understanding, and learning.

Question 3

Can hearing students attend Darden-Perry Academy?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Hearing students are an important part of the Darden-Perry Academy model.Students will receive a strong academic education while also having the opportunity to learn American Sign Language. No previous knowledge of ASL is required.

Question 4

Why does Darden-Perry Academy teach both English and American Sign Language (ASL)?

Accepted Answer

We believe communication is a powerful tool for learning and connection.English provides the foundation for literacy, reading, writing, and academic learning, while ASL gives students the opportunity to develop skills in a complete visual language. Learning both languages can help students communicate across differences and develop a broader understanding of the world around them.

Question 5

Does my child need to know ASL before attending?

Accepted Answer

No. Students do not need previous ASL experience to attend Darden-Perry Academy.Students will have opportunities to learn and develop their ASL skills as part of the school's educational program.

Question 6

What does English-ASL dual-language education mean?

Accepted Answer

Darden-Perry Academy's dual-language model is designed to develop students' skills in both English and American Sign Language.Students will receive instruction aligned with North Carolina academic standards while developing their ability to communicate through English and ASL. The two languages will be used intentionally within the educational program.

Question 7

Will students still receive strong English instruction?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Strong English instruction is an essential part of the Darden-Perry Academy educational model.Students will develop grade-level skills in reading, writing, grammar, literacy, communication, and other academic areas aligned with North Carolina standards. Learning ASL does not replace English instruction.

A New Kind of Dual-Language Public Charter School Is Coming to Wilmington, NC

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