A Brief History of the
Utah School for the Deaf
Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney & Bronwyn O'Hara
Published in 2014
Updated in 2026
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney & Bronwyn O'Hara
Published in 2014
Updated in 2026
Author's Note
As a community historian, I have noticed a common misconception in discussions of Utah Deaf history. Many people believe that Henry C. White founded the Utah School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City in 1884. Historical records, however, indicate that the school's origins can be traced to the efforts of William Wood and John Beck, both parents of Deaf children.
William and John worked to establish a classroom for Deaf students at the University of Deseret (now the University of Utah). Their advocacy and persistence laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Utah School for the Deaf.
Dr. John R. Park, president of the University of Deseret, appointed Henry C. White as principal of the new school upon the recommendation of Dr. Edward M. Gallaudet, president of Gallaudet College. At the same time, the efforts of William Wood and John Beck helped persuade the Utah Legislature to establish the school as a department of the state university. The school officially opened on August 26, 1884, marking an important milestone in Utah Deaf history.
I hope this clarification helps provide a fuller understanding of the school's origins and the individuals who contributed to its establishment. For additional information, please refer to the articles and primary sources included below.
The founding of the Utah School for the Deaf represented an important step in expanding educational opportunities for Deaf children in Utah. Its establishment created a foundation for Deaf education, community building, and advocacy that continues to influence Utah Deaf history today.
Thank you for your interest in this topic.
Jodi Christel Becker
William and John worked to establish a classroom for Deaf students at the University of Deseret (now the University of Utah). Their advocacy and persistence laid the foundation for what would eventually become the Utah School for the Deaf.
Dr. John R. Park, president of the University of Deseret, appointed Henry C. White as principal of the new school upon the recommendation of Dr. Edward M. Gallaudet, president of Gallaudet College. At the same time, the efforts of William Wood and John Beck helped persuade the Utah Legislature to establish the school as a department of the state university. The school officially opened on August 26, 1884, marking an important milestone in Utah Deaf history.
I hope this clarification helps provide a fuller understanding of the school's origins and the individuals who contributed to its establishment. For additional information, please refer to the articles and primary sources included below.
The founding of the Utah School for the Deaf represented an important step in expanding educational opportunities for Deaf children in Utah. Its establishment created a foundation for Deaf education, community building, and advocacy that continues to influence Utah Deaf history today.
Thank you for your interest in this topic.
Jodi Christel Becker
Historical Timeline of the Utah School for the Deaf
1884: Establishment of the Utah School for the Deaf
The establishment of the Utah School for the Deaf in 1884 marked a major turning point in the history of Deaf education in Utah. The school was founded at the University of Deseret, now known as the University of Utah, in Salt Lake City through the efforts of John Beck and William Wood, both parents of Deaf children. Recognizing the need for specialized education, they worked diligently with territorial legislators to secure funding and establish a school for Deaf students (Evans, 1999; Clarke, 1897; Metcalf, 1898; Pace, 1947).
Their efforts culminated in the passage of an appropriation bill that provided financial support for the new school. This achievement paved the way for increased educational opportunities, stronger advocacy, and improved resources for Deaf children throughout Utah. Over time, the Utah School for the Deaf evolved into a vital institution dedicated to serving Deaf and hard-of-hearing students while promoting accessibility and inclusion.
Their efforts culminated in the passage of an appropriation bill that provided financial support for the new school. This achievement paved the way for increased educational opportunities, stronger advocacy, and improved resources for Deaf children throughout Utah. Over time, the Utah School for the Deaf evolved into a vital institution dedicated to serving Deaf and hard-of-hearing students while promoting accessibility and inclusion.
John Beck. Source: FamilySearch.org
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William Wood. Source: FamilySearch.org
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Following the passage of the appropriation bill, Dr. John Rocky Park, president of the University of Deseret, assumed responsibility for establishing the Utah School for the Deaf on the university campus in Salt Lake City. Determined to find a qualified Deaf educator, he consulted Dr. Edward Miner Gallaudet, president of Gallaudet College, who recommended Henry C. White, a Deaf graduate of Gallaudet College from Boston, Massachusetts. Acting on this recommendation, Dr. Park appointed Henry as principal and teacher of the Utah School for the Deaf (The Utah Eagle, February 1922; Evans, 1999).
Although Henry C. White was not the school's founder, he played a crucial role in its success and sustainability. Despite limited funding and a lack of support from much of the hearing community, including some hearing parents of Deaf children, he worked tirelessly to ensure the school's survival and growth. His efforts helped establish a strong educational foundation and fostered a sense of community among Deaf students and their families.
Although Henry C. White was not the school's founder, he played a crucial role in its success and sustainability. Despite limited funding and a lack of support from much of the hearing community, including some hearing parents of Deaf children, he worked tirelessly to ensure the school's survival and growth. His efforts helped establish a strong educational foundation and fostered a sense of community among Deaf students and their families.
Henry C. White. Photo courtesy of the Gallaudet University Archives
On August 26, 1884, a room at the University of Deseret became the first home of the Utah School for the Deaf. The school's first student was Elizabeth Wood, the Deaf daughter of William Wood, who had previously attended the Colorado School for the Deaf (Fay, Histories of American Schools for the Deaf, 1817-1893). Shortly afterward, John Beck's Deaf sons, Joseph, John, and Jacob Beck, transferred from the California School for the Deaf and joined the new school (Evans, 1999).
Professor Henry C. White served as teacher, principal, and later head teacher until 1890. Under his leadership, the school not only provided education but also fostered a sense of community among Deaf students and their families. He promoted the use of sign language and encouraged Deaf individuals to recognize their capabilities and advocate for their rights. His dedication laid the foundation for future developments in Deaf education and Deaf culture throughout Utah (Fay, 1893; Clarke, 1897; Metcalf, 1900; The Utah Eagle, February 1922; Pace, 1946).
Professor Henry C. White served as teacher, principal, and later head teacher until 1890. Under his leadership, the school not only provided education but also fostered a sense of community among Deaf students and their families. He promoted the use of sign language and encouraged Deaf individuals to recognize their capabilities and advocate for their rights. His dedication laid the foundation for future developments in Deaf education and Deaf culture throughout Utah (Fay, 1893; Clarke, 1897; Metcalf, 1900; The Utah Eagle, February 1922; Pace, 1946).
Elizabeth Wood, 1886. Source: FamilySearch.org
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Jacob Beck, 1921. Source: 1966 NFSD SLC Division, No. 56
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The Utah School for the Deaf is located on the University of Utah campus. Source: APH Callahan Museum
The Utah School for the Deaf is located at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah
The Utah School for the Deaf at the University of Utah, West High Campus, in 1898, Salt Lake City, Utah. Photo courtesy of Ole Pettit Photograph Collection: The Special Collections at the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
1886-1887: Henry C. White's Extraordinary Dedication
During the 1886-87 school year, Deaf educator Henry C. White boarded Deaf students in his Salt Lake City home at his own expense. This selfless act provided students with a safe and supportive environment while demonstrating his unwavering commitment to their education and well-being (Fay, Histories of American Schools for the Deaf, 1817-1893).
Professor White's willingness to personally care for his students reflected his belief that Deaf children deserved both educational opportunities and a nurturing environment. His dedication left a lasting impact on the Utah Deaf community.
Professor White's willingness to personally care for his students reflected his belief that Deaf children deserved both educational opportunities and a nurturing environment. His dedication left a lasting impact on the Utah Deaf community.
The Utah School for the Deaf, part of the University of Deseret, was located at Professor Henry C. White's home in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1886. Source: American School for the Deaf, 1817-1893
The photograph below shows the Main Building, with the Annex Building located in the background. At the time the photograph was taken, the building served as Utah's Territorial Reform School. The individuals shown in the photograph were students of the reform school. In 1896, the property later became the home of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind.
The Territorial Reform School, Ogden, Utah. Photo courtesy of the Kenneth C. Burdett Bulletin Board
1896: Relocation to Ogden and Creation
of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind
of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind
When Utah achieved statehood in 1896, the Territorial Reform School in Ogden was converted into the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. Located on fifty-seven acres, the campus officially became the permanent home of Deaf education in Utah on September 15, 1896.
For the first time, educational services for Blind students were added to the institution, resulting in the new name, Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. The move to Ogden provided expanded facilities and greater opportunities for students throughout the state.
The accompanying photograph shows the Main Building of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind, with the Annex Building located behind it.
For the first time, educational services for Blind students were added to the institution, resulting in the new name, Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. The move to Ogden provided expanded facilities and greater opportunities for students throughout the state.
The accompanying photograph shows the Main Building of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind, with the Annex Building located behind it.
The Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Ogden, Utah, 1896: Source: APH Callahan Museum
1897-1898: Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon's Transformative Legacy
Few individuals had a greater impact on the early development of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind than Dr. Martha Hughes Cannon. A physician, suffragist, public health advocate, and the first female state senator in the United States, she also served on the Board of Trustees of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind.
In 1897, Martha sponsored the landmark "Act Providing for Compulsory Education of Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Citizens."This legislation required Deaf and Blind children to attend the state institution and ensured access to specialized education. It marked a major advancement in educational opportunities for Deaf and Blind students throughout Utah (Pace, The Utah Eagle, October 1946; Martha Hughes Cannon, Utah Division of Archives and Records Services, April 9, 2020; Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024).
In 1897, Martha sponsored the landmark "Act Providing for Compulsory Education of Deaf, Dumb, and Blind Citizens."This legislation required Deaf and Blind children to attend the state institution and ensured access to specialized education. It marked a major advancement in educational opportunities for Deaf and Blind students throughout Utah (Pace, The Utah Eagle, October 1946; Martha Hughes Cannon, Utah Division of Archives and Records Services, April 9, 2020; Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024).
Martha Hughes Cannon. SourceL Utah State Historical Society, Deseret News Archives
The following year, she sponsored the "Act of Authorizing the Erection of a Hospital Building for the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb." Passed in 1898, the legislation led to the construction of a hospital on campus, which was completed in 1900. The new facility provided essential healthcare services and reflected her commitment to improving the lives of Deaf and Blind students (Pace, The Utah Eagle, October 1946; Martha Hughes Cannon, Utah Division of Archives and Records Services, April 9, 2020; Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024).
The hospital building is at the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind in Ogden, Utah. Source: Biennial Report of the Trustees and Superintendent of the Utah State School for the Deaf, Dumb, and Dumb and the Blind, 1903–04
During her service on the Board of Trustees in 1896, Martha and her fellow board members recognized the absence of a law requiring Deaf and Blind children to receive specialized education. They submitted an urgent report to the governor and legislature recommending mandatory attendance at the state institution rather than placement in local public schools. They believed specialized education would provide Deaf and Blind children with far greater opportunities for academic and social development (Report of the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb and the State School for the Blind, 1896).
Following her election to the Utah Senate, Martha continued to champion this cause. Her successful efforts resulted in the passage of compulsory education legislation and increased public awareness of the educational needs of Deaf and Blind children. These achievements helped create a more inclusive educational system and expanded opportunities for generations of students.
Governor Heber M. Wells recognized Martha's contributions by appointing her to the Board of Trustees of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. Even after leaving elected office following one term in the Senate, she continued serving additional terms on the board and remained dedicated to improving educational and healthcare services for Deaf and Blind students (Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024).
Dr. Hughes Cannon's work transformed the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind and left a lasting legacy. Her dedication to public service, healthcare, education, and equal opportunity continues to inspire future generations.
Following her election to the Utah Senate, Martha continued to champion this cause. Her successful efforts resulted in the passage of compulsory education legislation and increased public awareness of the educational needs of Deaf and Blind children. These achievements helped create a more inclusive educational system and expanded opportunities for generations of students.
Governor Heber M. Wells recognized Martha's contributions by appointing her to the Board of Trustees of the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. Even after leaving elected office following one term in the Senate, she continued serving additional terms on the board and remained dedicated to improving educational and healthcare services for Deaf and Blind students (Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024).
Dr. Hughes Cannon's work transformed the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind and left a lasting legacy. Her dedication to public service, healthcare, education, and equal opportunity continues to inspire future generations.
Report of the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb and the State School for the Blind, 1896.
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Report of the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb and the State School for the Blind, 1896.
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Report of the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb and the State School for the Blind, 1896, p. 10
1901-1902
Prior to the construction of their campus residence, Superintendent Frank M. Driggs and his wife resided in the Main Building shown in the photograph below.
The Main Building of the Utah School for the Deaf. Photo courtesy of the Kenneth C. Burdett Bulletin Board
Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Ogden, Utah. Photo courtesy of the Kenneth C. Burdett Bulletin Board
Utah School for the Deaf and the Blind, Ogden, Utah. Photo courtesy of the Special Collections at the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
Utah School for the Deaf and Blind. Ogden, Utah. Photo courtesy of the Special Collections at the J. Willard Marriott Library, University of Utah
1954
In 1954, a new Administration Classroom Building was constructed in front of the original Main Building at the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind in Ogden, Utah. Shortly after the new Main Building, pictured below, was completed, the original Main Building was demolished.
A new Main Building of the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Ogden, Utah. Photo courtesy of the Kenneth C. Burdett Bulletin Board
1956
In the Salt Lake area of Utah, parents of Deaf children worked with the Stewart Training School, a teacher-training program at the University of Utah, to establish a local oral day school, as shown in the photograph below. The Stewart Training School opened its doors in the fall of 1956 to provide an oral classroom for Deaf students.
In Utah, the concept of mainstreaming became a popular approach, leading to the expansion of outreach programs. One of the parents, Paul Williams Hodson, had a son named Jonathon, who was five years old at the time. Jonathon recalled that his teacher at the school was Miss Hunt, who later taught at Riley Elementary School (Jonathon Hodson, personal communication, January 31, 2022).
The Stewart Training School, a research facility, provided early education to Deaf children using speech and listening skills instead of sign language. This method, known as aural/oral training or oral Deaf education, aimed to develop students' speaking and listening abilities (The Utah Eagle, October & November 1960). This approach generated considerable debate, as many members of the Utah Deaf community advocated for sign language as the primary means of communication and instruction. Despite differing opinions, institutions such as the Stewart Training School had a significant influence on Deaf education in Utah and helped shape the development of oral and mainstream educational programs for future generations.
In Utah, the concept of mainstreaming became a popular approach, leading to the expansion of outreach programs. One of the parents, Paul Williams Hodson, had a son named Jonathon, who was five years old at the time. Jonathon recalled that his teacher at the school was Miss Hunt, who later taught at Riley Elementary School (Jonathon Hodson, personal communication, January 31, 2022).
The Stewart Training School, a research facility, provided early education to Deaf children using speech and listening skills instead of sign language. This method, known as aural/oral training or oral Deaf education, aimed to develop students' speaking and listening abilities (The Utah Eagle, October & November 1960). This approach generated considerable debate, as many members of the Utah Deaf community advocated for sign language as the primary means of communication and instruction. Despite differing opinions, institutions such as the Stewart Training School had a significant influence on Deaf education in Utah and helped shape the development of oral and mainstream educational programs for future generations.
The Oral Extension Program at James Whitcomb Riley Elementary School, located at 1431 South Eighth West Street, Salt Lake City, Utah, is part of the Utah School for the Deaf. Utahn, 1960. Source: https://science.utah.edu/science-u/stewart/
1959
In 1959, the Utah School for the Deaf established an Extension Division to provide Deaf students with educational opportunities closer to their homes. Over time, Extension Divisions were created throughout Utah, offering day programs for Deaf children living in heavily populated areas (Utahn, 1960).
The Oral Extension Program at the Riley Elementary School is part of the Utah School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Utah. Utahn, 1960
1960s
Under the leadership of Dr. Grant B. Bitter, a prominent advocate of oral and mainstream education, Utah became a leading force in the movement to mainstream Deaf children into public schools. His efforts earned him the title "Father of Mainstreaming." Dr. Bitter strongly supported mainstream educational placement and oral instruction for Deaf children, and his influence contributed to the broader acceptance of mainstreaming nationwide following the passage of Public Law 94-142 in 1975, now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. His daughter, Colleen, who was born deaf in 1954, inspired his lifelong dedication to oral and mainstream education.
In 1962, the Utah Council for the Deaf, which favored oral instruction, successfully advocated for the implementation of the dual-track program, commonly known as the "Y" system, at the Utah School for the Deaf (The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962). It is believed that Dr. Bitter was a member of this council. The program established two educational tracks: an oral program and a simultaneous communication program (The Utah Eagle, February 1968; Gannon, 1981).
The newly hired superintendent, Robert W. Tegeder, accepted the parents' proposals and initiated changes to the school system (The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962; Grant Bitter: Everett L. Cooley Oral History Project, March 17, 1987). The Utah State Board of Education approved the policy reform on June 14, 1962, with support from the Special Study Committee on Deaf Education (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 14, 1962; Wight, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970).
The dual-track program shifted its emphasis from sign language instruction toward oral communication. School administrators considered the dual-track system superior to a single-track approach (The Utah Eagle, February 1968; Wight, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970). According to administrators, the oral program required a "pure oral mindset."
In 1968, the Utah School for the Deaf was one of the few residential schools in the nation to offer an exclusively oral elementary program (The Utah Eagle, February 1968). By 1973, it was the only school in the United States that offered parents and Deaf students a choice of both communication methods through the dual-track system (Laflamme, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 5, 1973).
The dual-track program remained controversial within the Utah Deaf community. Supporters believed it provided educational options and opportunities for individualized instruction, while critics argued that the system favored oral education and contributed to divisions between signing and oral students.
In 1962, the Utah Council for the Deaf, which favored oral instruction, successfully advocated for the implementation of the dual-track program, commonly known as the "Y" system, at the Utah School for the Deaf (The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962). It is believed that Dr. Bitter was a member of this council. The program established two educational tracks: an oral program and a simultaneous communication program (The Utah Eagle, February 1968; Gannon, 1981).
The newly hired superintendent, Robert W. Tegeder, accepted the parents' proposals and initiated changes to the school system (The UAD Bulletin, Fall-Winter 1962; Grant Bitter: Everett L. Cooley Oral History Project, March 17, 1987). The Utah State Board of Education approved the policy reform on June 14, 1962, with support from the Special Study Committee on Deaf Education (The Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 14, 1962; Wight, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970).
The dual-track program shifted its emphasis from sign language instruction toward oral communication. School administrators considered the dual-track system superior to a single-track approach (The Utah Eagle, February 1968; Wight, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970). According to administrators, the oral program required a "pure oral mindset."
In 1968, the Utah School for the Deaf was one of the few residential schools in the nation to offer an exclusively oral elementary program (The Utah Eagle, February 1968). By 1973, it was the only school in the United States that offered parents and Deaf students a choice of both communication methods through the dual-track system (Laflamme, The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 5, 1973).
The dual-track program remained controversial within the Utah Deaf community. Supporters believed it provided educational options and opportunities for individualized instruction, while critics argued that the system favored oral education and contributed to divisions between signing and oral students.
The "Y" System Program is held at the Main Building of the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah
As shown in the picture above,
the "Y" System Program took place at the
Main Building of the Utah School for the Deaf. The Oral Department was on the left, and the Simultaneous Department was on the right
(Utahn, 1957).
the "Y" System Program took place at the
Main Building of the Utah School for the Deaf. The Oral Department was on the left, and the Simultaneous Department was on the right
(Utahn, 1957).
1969
Since 1896, the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind had shared the same campus. However, in January 1969, new facilities for the Blind school were completed at a different location. Thereafter, the Deaf school remained at 20th Street and Monroe Avenue, while the Blind school relocated to 7th Street and Harrison Boulevard. Although both schools continued to operate under the name Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, they have occupied separate campuses since 1969.
1970
For nearly a decade, the Utah Deaf community and supportive parents of Deaf children opposed the "Y" system, but their concerns were largely ignored, particularly following the student protest of 1962. It was not until students organized another walkout in 1969 that the Utah State Board of Education approved a new policy.
The new policy replaced the "Y" system with a two-track program in 1970, which allowed parents to choose either the oral method or the total communication method for Deaf children ages 2½ through 21 years. Dr. Jay J. Campbell, a valued ally of the Utah Deaf community, supervised the program and the Utah School for the Deaf (Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, May 14, 2011; Recommendations on Policy for the Utah School for the Deaf, 1970; Deseret News, December 29, 1970).
Despite implementation of the two-track program, Dr. Bitter continued to advocate strongly for oral education and mainstreaming. As mainstream placements increased, many alums and members of the Utah Deaf community expressed concern about declining enrollment at the Utah School for the Deaf and the long-term effects on Deaf culture, community connections, and Deaf-centered education.
The new policy replaced the "Y" system with a two-track program in 1970, which allowed parents to choose either the oral method or the total communication method for Deaf children ages 2½ through 21 years. Dr. Jay J. Campbell, a valued ally of the Utah Deaf community, supervised the program and the Utah School for the Deaf (Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, May 14, 2011; Recommendations on Policy for the Utah School for the Deaf, 1970; Deseret News, December 29, 1970).
Despite implementation of the two-track program, Dr. Bitter continued to advocate strongly for oral education and mainstreaming. As mainstream placements increased, many alums and members of the Utah Deaf community expressed concern about declining enrollment at the Utah School for the Deaf and the long-term effects on Deaf culture, community connections, and Deaf-centered education.
Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Ogden, Utah. Source: Control, Inc.
1991
On October 1, 1991, the groundbreaking ceremony for a new facility for the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind was held on the campus at 742 Harrison Boulevard in Ogden, Utah.
1993
Two years later, in 1993, the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind consolidated onto a single campus due to declining enrollment at the Deaf school, a trend influenced by the increasing mainstreaming of Deaf students. The consolidation took place on the new 13.5-acre campus located at the corner of 7th Street and Harrison Boulevard in Ogden, Utah.
Following the move, the Ogden City School District assumed ownership of the former Deaf school campus located at 20th Street and Monroe Avenue, which remains visible today.
Following the move, the Ogden City School District assumed ownership of the former Deaf school campus located at 20th Street and Monroe Avenue, which remains visible today.
1999
In 1999, the Utah Association for the Deaf's Bi-Bi Committee, led by Minnie Mae Wilding-Diaz, a Deaf parent of three Deaf children, and Jeff Allen, a hearing parent of a Deaf daughter, searched for a high-quality educational program for Deaf children in Utah.
Their efforts led to the establishment of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, a public charter school in Salt Lake City, Utah, that offered an ASL/English bilingual program. The school was named in honor of Jean Massieu, a renowned French Deaf teacher.
Their efforts led to the establishment of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, a public charter school in Salt Lake City, Utah, that offered an ASL/English bilingual program. The school was named in honor of Jean Massieu, a renowned French Deaf teacher.
2005
In 2005, Joe Zeidner, a hearing parent of a Deaf daughter, undertook legislative efforts on behalf of Utah Deaf Education and Literacy, Inc. These efforts resulted in the merger of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf with the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind later that same year.
2008
In 2008, the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf merged with the Utah School for the Deaf's Total Communication Program. Prior to the merger, many Total Communication teachers had graduated from Utah State University's Deaf Education Program, which emphasized an ASL/English bilingual approach. Following the merger, Total Communication teachers were given the opportunity to incorporate bilingual education practices into their classrooms.
According to Michelle Tanner, a teacher in the Total Communication Program, principal of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, and later Associate Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, the merger had a positive impact on students. The increased student population improved both the instructional environment and peer interactions, supporting language development and creating a stronger bilingual educational setting that incorporated both American Sign Language (ASL) and English. Michelle Tanner had long envisioned the merger and actively advocated for it (Michelle Tanner, personal communication, July 8, 2011).
According to Michelle Tanner, a teacher in the Total Communication Program, principal of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, and later Associate Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, the merger had a positive impact on students. The increased student population improved both the instructional environment and peer interactions, supporting language development and creating a stronger bilingual educational setting that incorporated both American Sign Language (ASL) and English. Michelle Tanner had long envisioned the merger and actively advocated for it (Michelle Tanner, personal communication, July 8, 2011).
2010
In January 2010, the teachers and students of the Jean Massieu School of the Deaf, along with other USDB programs, relocated to a new facility located at 1655 East 3300 South in Salt Lake City, Utah, as shown in the photographs below.
After more than a decade of frustration and repeated denials from the Utah Legislature, they finally had a permanent facility they could call home.
After more than a decade of frustration and repeated denials from the Utah Legislature, they finally had a permanent facility they could call home.
Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Salt Lake City, Utah. Source: USDB Website
Jean Massieu School of the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Utah. Photograph by Jodi Christel Becker
2011
In 2011, the ASL/English Bilingual Program at the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind in Ogden, Utah, was named the Kenneth Burdett School of the Deaf in honor of Kenneth C. Burdett, affectionally known as "KB."
KB graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1929 and later devoted four decades of service to the school from 1934 to 1974. During his long association with the institution, he served in numerous roles, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator.
KB graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1929 and later devoted four decades of service to the school from 1934 to 1974. During his long association with the institution, he served in numerous roles, including student, boys' supervisor, head basketball coach, athletic director, teacher, printing instructor, and curriculum coordinator.
Kenneth Burdett School of the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. Photograph by Jodi Christel Becker
Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind, Ogden, Utah. Source: Control, Inc.
2016
On October 6, 2016, the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind campus in Salt Lake City, Utah, dedicated its new Education Center, as shown below. The event included a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring C. Mark Openshaw, a former member of the Utah State Board of Education.
The center houses administrative offices and preschool classrooms serving students in the Listening and Spoken Language Program as well as Blind students. The facility is located at 1655 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Additionally, the gymnasium floor inside the C. Mark Openshaw Education Center features an eagle logo designed by Brandon R. Hill, a Deaf graduate of Gallaudet University (Class of 2003 and 2013). The logo was created to represent the school, and its central design element was adapted from the USDB Eagle logo.
The center houses administrative offices and preschool classrooms serving students in the Listening and Spoken Language Program as well as Blind students. The facility is located at 1655 East 3300 South, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Additionally, the gymnasium floor inside the C. Mark Openshaw Education Center features an eagle logo designed by Brandon R. Hill, a Deaf graduate of Gallaudet University (Class of 2003 and 2013). The logo was created to represent the school, and its central design element was adapted from the USDB Eagle logo.
C. Mark Openshaw Education Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Photograph by Jodi Christel Becker
2020
In 2020, the ASL/English Bilingual Program located on the Utah Schools for the Deaf and Blind campus in Springville, Utah, was renamed the Elizabeth DeLong School of the Deaf in honor of Elizabeth DeLong.
Elizabeth was the first female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, elected in 1909. She graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1897 and from Gallaudet College in 1902. She later devoted fifteen years of service as a teacher at the Utah School for the Deaf.
Elizabeth was the first female president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, elected in 1909. She graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1897 and from Gallaudet College in 1902. She later devoted fifteen years of service as a teacher at the Utah School for the Deaf.
Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind in Springville, Utah
A Slideshow of the
Utah Schools for the Deaf Buildings
For your convenience and curiosity, I have included photographs of buildings associated with the Utah School for the Deaf in the slideshow below. These historic images help tell the story of the school's growth and evolution while preserving an important part of Utah Deaf history.
I hope you enjoy exploring these photographs and gain a deeper appreciation for the people, places, and traditions that have shaped Deaf education in Utah. Enjoy!
I hope you enjoy exploring these photographs and gain a deeper appreciation for the people, places, and traditions that have shaped Deaf education in Utah. Enjoy!
Personal Communication
Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication with the author, May 14, 2011.
Jonathan Hodson, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, January 31, 2022.
Michelle Tanner, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, July 8, 2011.
Jonathan Hodson, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, January 31, 2022.
Michelle Tanner, e-mail message to Jodi Christel Becker, July 8, 2011.
References
Clarke, Edward P. "Under Quarantine." The Utah Eagle, vol. IX, no. 2 (October 15, 1897): 12.
"Dual Method For Teaching Deaf." Deseret News, December 29, 1970.
Evans, David S. A Silent World In The Intermountain West: Records From The Utah School For The Deaf and Blind, 1884-1941. Utah State University: Logan, Utah. 1999.
Fay, Edward Allen. History of the Utah School for the Deaf - History of American Schools for the Deaf. 1817 – 1893. School of Education Library; Stanford University Libraries: The Volta Bureau, 1893. https://books.google.com/books?id=tjEWAAAAIAAJ&pg=RA21-PA10&lpg=RA21-PA10&dq=Frank+M.+Driggs,+deaf&source=web&ots=il1POQSsle&sig=5L_Ewyv3YcTrbGyafwB4psnD-k0&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=9&ct=result#v=onepage&q=Frank%20M.%20Driggs%2C%20deaf&f=false
Gannon, Jack R. Deaf Heritage: A Narrative History of Deaf America. Silver Spring, Maryland: National Association of the Deaf, 1981.
"Henry C. White." The Utah Eagle, vol. 33, no. 5 (February 1922): 1-2.
Laflamme, Lon. "Two Methods for Teaching Deaf Offered." The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 5, 1973.
"Martha Hughes Cannon," Wikipedia, January 22, 2019. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Hughes_Cannon
Martha Hughes Cannon, Utah Division of Archives and Records Services, April 9, 2020.
Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Hughes_Cannon
"Meet to Examine Help for the Deaf." Deseret News, December 29, 1970.
Metcalf, Frank. "Dr. John R. Park." The Utah Eagle, vol. xii, no. 2 (October 15, 1900): 12.
"New Developments in Utah's Educational Programs for the Deaf." The Utah Eagle, vol. 79, no. 5 (February 1968): 13 – 15.
Pace, Irma Acord. "A History of the Utah School for the Deaf." The Utah Eagle, vol. 58, no. 1 (October 1946): 1-33.
Report of the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb and the State School for the Blind, 1896.
Stewart Training School. The Utah Eagle, October and November 1960.
The Oral Extension Program at the Riley Elementary School. Utahn, 1960.
"Two-Way Program to Be Instituted This Fall at Utah School for Deaf," Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 14, 1962, 1B.
"Utah Council for the Deaf." UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, No. 8 (Fall-Winter 1962): 3.
Wright, Ray. "Deaf Teaching Methods Debated." The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970.
"Dual Method For Teaching Deaf." Deseret News, December 29, 1970.
Evans, David S. A Silent World In The Intermountain West: Records From The Utah School For The Deaf and Blind, 1884-1941. Utah State University: Logan, Utah. 1999.
Fay, Edward Allen. History of the Utah School for the Deaf - History of American Schools for the Deaf. 1817 – 1893. School of Education Library; Stanford University Libraries: The Volta Bureau, 1893. https://books.google.com/books?id=tjEWAAAAIAAJ&pg=RA21-PA10&lpg=RA21-PA10&dq=Frank+M.+Driggs,+deaf&source=web&ots=il1POQSsle&sig=5L_Ewyv3YcTrbGyafwB4psnD-k0&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=9&ct=result#v=onepage&q=Frank%20M.%20Driggs%2C%20deaf&f=false
Gannon, Jack R. Deaf Heritage: A Narrative History of Deaf America. Silver Spring, Maryland: National Association of the Deaf, 1981.
"Henry C. White." The Utah Eagle, vol. 33, no. 5 (February 1922): 1-2.
Laflamme, Lon. "Two Methods for Teaching Deaf Offered." The Ogden Standard-Examiner, September 5, 1973.
"Martha Hughes Cannon," Wikipedia, January 22, 2019. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Hughes_Cannon
Martha Hughes Cannon, Utah Division of Archives and Records Services, April 9, 2020.
Martha Hughes Cannon, Wikipedia, April 20, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martha_Hughes_Cannon
"Meet to Examine Help for the Deaf." Deseret News, December 29, 1970.
Metcalf, Frank. "Dr. John R. Park." The Utah Eagle, vol. xii, no. 2 (October 15, 1900): 12.
"New Developments in Utah's Educational Programs for the Deaf." The Utah Eagle, vol. 79, no. 5 (February 1968): 13 – 15.
Pace, Irma Acord. "A History of the Utah School for the Deaf." The Utah Eagle, vol. 58, no. 1 (October 1946): 1-33.
Report of the Utah State School for the Deaf and Dumb and the State School for the Blind, 1896.
Stewart Training School. The Utah Eagle, October and November 1960.
The Oral Extension Program at the Riley Elementary School. Utahn, 1960.
"Two-Way Program to Be Instituted This Fall at Utah School for Deaf," Ogden Standard-Examiner, June 14, 1962, 1B.
"Utah Council for the Deaf." UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, No. 8 (Fall-Winter 1962): 3.
Wright, Ray. "Deaf Teaching Methods Debated." The Ogden Standard-Examiner, October 19, 1970.
