Unmasking Deaf Education
Raymond Merritt Dec 03, 2025
Raymond Merritt July 12, 2025 in ASL 12 Subscribers Subscribe
In this video, I take you through two journeys—one hands-on, the other policy-focused. First, I share my progress converting a 1998 homemade 5x10 semi-flat bed trailer into an enclosed camper/utility trailer with a 3,000 lb payload. The flooring and front wall are in—just four more walls, a roof, a door, a window, and electrical wiring to go—all in just 10 days!
Then I shift gears to something even more important: how public funding through mill levies and state general funds is distributed. Currently, property taxes support public schools and public libraries—but not deaf schools or ASL resources. So where is the funding going—and more importantly, where isn't it going? Deaf schools and ASL materials in public libraries are often overlooked in this system.
I discuss why deaf schools should be recognized as "quasi-public schools" and how institutions like Gallaudet University could benefit from a community college-style funding model that incorporates local property taxes. Let’s talk about building a more inclusive and accessible future for education!
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