It's a perplexing paradox: American Sign Language is a global language and a multi-billion dollar industry, yet deaf education in the U.S. and beyond faces a profound crisis. This video exposes the core problems, from widespread language deprivation (and the promise of LEAD-K) to the alarming decline in specialized Deaf school enrollment (shout-out to JMS, PS47, PS347!).

We'll unpack:
The double-edged sword of LRE (Least Restrictive Environment): A win for general disability rights, but a complex
challenge for the Deaf community and ASL. The heavy reliance on interpreters and the urgent need for more
qualified professionals. The uncomfortable truth about the economic burden of deaf education and the misconception
of "cheaper" solutions.

Inspired by the legacy of activists like Judy Heumann who fought against institutionalization, we reveal why current approaches aren't enough. It's time for a complete, top-down transformation – a new strategy, empowered leadership, redesigned processes, integrated technology, and clear metrics. Discover what it truly takes to transcend the current crisis and build a thriving future for deaf education.

#RaymondMerritt #GallaudetUniversity #LEAD-K #ASL #DeafEducation