Model Secondary
School for the Deaf
Located in Washington D.C., MSSD is a bilingual high school where Deaf and hard of hearing students thrive. We offer a rich residential life, strong Deaf identity development, and opportunities in academics, leadership, arts, and athletics.
100%
college enrollment or full-time employment within one year of graduation
3.4
grade point average across all student-athletes
97%
of the Class of 2025 received offers of admission to universities
Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) empowers deaf and hard of hearing students in grades 9–12 through a rigorous academic program grounded in bilingual education, self-advocacy, and community. With a strong focus on college and career readiness, MSSD supports students in becoming confident, independent thinkers and compassionate leaders.
Located on the historic campus of Gallaudet University, MSSD is more than a high school—it is a national model for excellence in deaf education. Since opening its doors in 1970, MSSD has shaped generations of changemakers, artists, scholars, and athletes. Today, we continue that legacy by providing a vibrant, inclusive learning environment where every student is seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Academic
Classrooms are intentionally designed to support visual learning and accessible communication, with small class sizes that promote individualized instruction and collaboration among students and teachers.
Student Life
Our goal is to extend learning beyond the classroom by creating meaningful opportunities for involvement, leadership, community building, and creative expression.
Student Services
Students access a comprehensive network of academic and communication services designed to ensure every student thrives—both in the classroom and in life.
Athletics
At the Model Secondary School for the Deaf, athletics is more than just competition—it’s a powerful extension of our students’ growth, teamwork, and school spirit.
Families
Whether you're looking for the academic calendar, handbook, graduation requirements, or need assistance from our staff, everything you need is right here in one place.
About Us
The Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) was established in 1969 by the U.S. Congress and is part of a 150-year history of educating deaf and hard of hearing students on the campus of Gallaudet University. MSSD provides a tuition-free comprehensive day and residential four-year high school program for deaf and hard of hearing students from the United States and its territories. Today, the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center operates MSSD as a demonstration high school in service to the nation.
As a demonstration school, MSSD attracts collaborations from educators and researchers from across the country interested in exploring bilingual teaching practices. Through its affiliation with Gallaudet University, a renowned institution of research and teacher education, University students and researchers learn with and mentor MSSD students. These advantages ensure dynamic practice and current theory in addition to a one-of-a-kind education for each student.
MSSD holds dual accreditation from the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf.
MSSD offers an incredible diversity of opportunities and has something for everyone—comprehensive support services, vibrant student organizations, a wide variety of sports, an outstanding performing arts program, and after-school activities such as student video productions, regional and national Academic Bowl competitions, a robotics team, and foreign travel.
The school’s location in the nation’s capital places MSSD students front and center to world-class educational and cultural resources. MSSD invites prospective students and their families to attend one of several annual Open Houses. Visit the MSSD Facebook page for more information, the latest news, and events.
Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf