Students are referred to the Scranton School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing children by a variety of sources including parents, audiologists, school districts and Intermediate Units.

Many families and school districts make their initial contact to SSDHHC by telephone or videophone. Parents are encouraged to schedule an appointment for a visit to the school for an opportunity to visit classrooms, talk with staff and tour the campus.

If parents decide to pursue a placement at the school, the Assistant to the Principal will facilitate the process. The parent is encouraged to contact their local school district in they haven't already. Student records are requested and when received, a review will be conducted. An evaluation may be scheduled which would include, audiological, speech and possible language testing. The school district is involved in placement at SSDHHC.

Acceptance decisions are based on the availability of an appropriate educational program and IEP determination; placement is then approved by the child's local school district and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

Of primary importance to the academic success of any child is the strength of the family and school partnership. For this reason, SSDHHC offers support to parents beginning with the initial contact and continuing through every step of the child's educational experience with SSDHHC.