About — Emmanuel Academy of the Deaf

THE NEED

When children and teenagers have a hearing loss, whether it is mild or profound, they experience unique challenges. Not only is communication difficult, but also their social, emotional and academic development is affected. Parents need information regarding available services and how to access them.

There are many deaf and partially hearing students in Puerto Rico. There is a growing community of men and women, hearing and deaf, committed to bridging the gaps between the needs of deaf students in Puerto Rico and available quality services. We are passionate about supporting these students and their families and connecting them with the resources and services within Puerto Rico. These students need instruction that addresses heir individual needs. This will enable students to reach their full potential in all areas of their lives – physical, mental, social, emotional, and spiritual!

Statement of Faith

We believe in God the Father, all powerful creator of heaven and earth. We believe in Jesus Christ who was fully God and fully Man, was born of a virgin, died on the cross for our sins and our sorrows, rose from the dead, ascended to heaven, and will return in power and glory. We believe in the Holy Spirit who convicts us of sins, comforts us, and guides us. We believe and teach the Bible as the inspired Word of God, the forgiveness of sin, salvation by grace through faith, and the gift of eternal life. We believe God calls us to share Christ’s love with others and to serve each other.

School Verse

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye. Psalm 32:8 (NKJV)

Motto

Truth, Communication, and Service

OUR TEAM

The Board of Directors of Christian Association for Deaf Education is made up of Puerto Ricans and North Americans as well as deaf and hearing members who are dedicated to the cause of providing a quality Christian education for students at Emmanuel Academy of the Deaf in Puerto Rico.

Board of Directors: Scott Bailey Timothy Croft Jim Damewood Craig Lemak Pastor Rene Pereira Tony Rosario

School Director: Diane Robinette Accountants: Jim Moore, Jose Alvarez and Rafael Soto Attorney: Bill Blessing

"When I met the people in the deaf community and had the opportunity to know the reality of their world, I could understand that one can see and be blind at the same time, and also hear and be deaf as well. Early intervention helps to remove barriers, to unite families, and to integrate persons who are completely able to lead a full life. I have witnessed how this relationship has changed my congregation and has changed the way I see, hear, and meet people. I am among those who say that I can see and hear, but I am missing the world of my deaf brothers and sisters. The work being done here in Puerto Rico brings together the family, the community, and the church so that we can all achieve our full potential. This program is a great blessing."

They brought to Him [Jesus] one who was deaf and spoke with difficulty, and they implored Him to lay His hand on him…and looking up to heaven with a deep sigh, He said to him, "Ephphatha!" that is, "Be opened!" Mark 7:32, 34 NASB*

Pastor Ricardo J. Cruz
Christian and Missionary Alliance Church Vega Baja Beach
Member of the Board of Directors of Christian Association for Deaf Education

The School