Gallaudet University recently appointed Stephen Farias as the Superintendent of Demonstration Elementary and Secondary Schools at the Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center. This appointment follows his impactful tenure as Interim Superintendent during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Stephen Farias, a proud alumnus of Gallaudet University and a Kappa Gamma brother, brings over two decades of experience in Deaf education to his new role. Initially, he began his career teaching history and English at various P-12 schools. In 2012, he returned to the Model Secondary School for the Deaf (MSSD) to teach English and history. By 2016, he transitioned into administrative roles, initially serving as Coordinator of Teaching and Learning at Kendall Demonstration Elementary School (KDES), and later as Director of Academic Programs at MSSD.

His educational background is robust, featuring a Bachelor’s degree in history from Gallaudet University and a Master’s degree in Deaf Education from McDaniel College. This solid foundation has equipped him with the necessary skills to lead the Clerc Center’s educational initiatives.

Accomplishments as Interim Superintendent

During the 2023-2024 academic year, Farias made several significant contributions:

  • Enhanced Student Engagement: Farias launched programs to increase academic and extracurricular participation. These initiatives effectively boosted student morale and performance, providing a more enriching educational experience.
  • Professional Development: Recognizing the need for continuous improvement, he enhanced professional development opportunities for teachers. By providing access to the latest educational strategies and resources, Farias ensured that this investment in teacher training translated into more effective classroom instruction and better student outcomes.
  • Technology Integration: Farias championed the use of advanced educational technologies, significantly enhancing learning experiences. This push for technological integration was particularly crucial during the shift to remote learning necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating his adaptability and forward-thinking approach.
  • Community Collaboration: Farias emphasized building partnerships with parents and the broader Deaf community. He organized forums and meetings to gather input and foster a collaborative environment. This approach ensured that the educational programs met the community’s needs and expectations, strengthening the bond between the school and its stakeholders.

Vision and Leadership

Farias envisions an inclusive, bilingual learning environment that seamlessly integrates American Sign Language (ASL) and English into the curriculum. His leadership style is characterized by collaboration and community engagement. Marianne Belsky, Chief Academic Officer at the Clerc Center, stated, “Stephen brings a wealth of experience to this role and a unique perspective to the position. As a graduate of both schools, he deeply invests in them and has a passion for both the instructional program and the student experience.”

The Clerc Center community has warmly welcomed Farias’ appointment. Parents, teachers, and students express confidence in his ability to drive positive changes and continue the legacy of excellence at KDES and MSSD. Nicole Sutliffe, Chief Administrative Officer at the Clerc Center, highlighted his commitment to the schools and his vision for their future, saying, “We are confident that Stephen will continue to build on the strengths of our Demonstration Schools. His passion for education and dedication to our students’ success are truly inspiring.”

Stephen Farias eagerly anticipates his new role and plans to work closely with families, teachers, and staff. He envisions a future where every student at the Clerc Center achieves their fullest potential in a nurturing and academically enriching environment. “Our goal is to create an environment where every student feels valued and supported,” Farias explained. “We are committed to providing the best possible education for our students, preparing them for success in their future endeavors.”