The Learning Center for the Deaf (TLC) serves deaf and hard-of-hearing students from infancy through high school. Founded in 1970 with several basic principles in mind, the following continue to be prevalent within our philosophy:

• TLC fosters respect for each of our students, for their families, and for every staff member
• TLC faculty shares the firm belief that learning is a
  life-long process which can be exciting and fun
• TLC creates an environment where communication and language are continuously accessible
• TLC provides academic opportunities and high standards for all deaf and hard-of-hearing students

The Learning Center today is comprised of two schools — a comprehensive Parent/Infant through High School program on our main campus in Framingham; and Walden School, a therapeutic, education and residential, treatment program for deaf students facing severe emotional, behavioral or developmental challenges.

Throughout its history, The Learning Center for the Deaf has been a leader in Deaf education. It was the first school in Massachusetts to depart from the "oral" method of education and to advocate the use of sign language in addition to spoken English. In 1988, TLC became a bilingual and bicultural school, placing it among the first in the nation.