Georgia to maintain financial aid for deaf students

An outpouring of protest leads the GVRA director to revoke the proposed policy change before a series of public hearings.

An outpouring of protest leads the GVRA director to revoke the proposed policy change before a series of public hearings.

The state is revoking its proposal to withdraw financial support for deaf students attending two prestigious national colleges outside of Georgia.

Sean T. Casey, executive director of the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, posted the following statement Thursday:

“Last month, GRVA released a proposed policy change impacting clients attending two specialized post-secondary institutions, Gallaudet University and the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, which serve students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing.

Since the opening of public comments, I have been listening to heartfelt concerns and questions regarding the proposed removal of the exemption from financial means tests for those wishing to attend Gallaudet and NTID. As executive director, I am revoking that proposed change effective immediately.

When we consider an issue, I always ask two questions. First, how does this affect the client? Second, does this benefit the client?

It is my sincere conviction that students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing benefit from access to specialized training via every opportunity possible. Therefore, I have asked that existing policy 446.1.04 remain intact with no changes.

Additionally, I am a making a commitment that, as long as I have the privilege of serving you in this role, I will do everything in my power to ensure all students who are eligible have access to Gallaudet and NTID with GVRA’s support.

Public hearings will continue with only the unrelated draft policy change. Because the voices of those we serve are the most important voices we hear, all are still welcome to express opinions.

However, I want to make it abundantly clear that every student currently enrolled at these two institutions, plus future applicants, will have the opportunity to pursue their education with no changes to services and tuition assistance GVRA provides.

Thank you to those who have shared your personal stories of education and achievement. Please know we continue to listen and serve with our clients at the forefront of all we do.”