Kendall Demonstration
Elementary School
From early language development in our Parent-Infant Program to academic excellence in grades K–8, KDES nurtures the whole child through an inclusive, student-centered approach.
4x
Battle of the Books
Division Champions
100%
Teacher Rate
46
National Literacy Competition Award Winners
Transcript
Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES) serves deaf and hard of hearing children from birth through 8th grade, offering a comprehensive academic program rooted in language, identity, and community. From early language development in our Parent-Infant Program to academic excellence in grades K–8, KDES nurtures the whole child through an inclusive, student-centered approach.
KDES is more than a school—it is a historic cornerstone of deaf education. Founded on the Kendall Green estate in the mid-1800s, KDES helped inspire the creation of what is now Gallaudet University. Today, we continue that legacy as a national model for innovation, access, and leadership in deaf education.
Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES) serves deaf and hard of hearing children from birth through 8th grade, offering a comprehensive academic program rooted in language, identity, and community. From early language development in our Parent-Infant Program to academic excellence in grades K–8, KDES nurtures the whole child through an inclusive, student-centered approach.
KDES is more than a school—it is a historic cornerstone of deaf education. Founded on the Kendall Green estate in the mid-1800s, KDES helped inspire the creation of what is now Gallaudet University. Today, we continue that legacy as a national model for innovation, access, and leadership in deaf education.
Academic
We provide students with an academically rigorous program so they will become self-directed, independent, and resourceful learners.
Student Services
An array of educational support services is available to each student. Related service providers are directly involved in developing IFSP or IEPs.
Athletics
Athletics provides our Grade 6-8 students with opportunities to compete and develop a strong sense of connection, integrity, self-esteem, sportsmanship, responsibility, and loyalty.
After School
Comprehensive after-school programs promote recreational and educational learning among peers outside the classroom.
About Us
The earliest years of the elementary school’s history also are those of Gallaudet University, for the lower school predated and inspired the establishment of the university. The story begins with Amos Kendall, a Dartmouth-educated journalist whose sharp political instincts and well-placed connections drew him to Washington, D.C., in the late 1820s. There, he rose through the ranks of government, eventually serving as postmaster general under Presidents Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren. In the middle years of his life, Kendall stepped away from politics and turned his attention to the wonders of new technology. Investing heavily in the recently invented telegraph, he partnered with Samuel F. B. Morse as his legal manager and business ally—a venture that would bring Kendall both influence and considerable wealth.