SAILL Preschool Program: A New Chapter in Supporting Speech and Literacy Development

At DePaul School for Hearing and Speech, we are excited to announce the expansion of our SAILL (Speech and Integrated Language for Literacy) preschool program. To accommodate this growth, we have relocated the program to the beautiful Rodef Shalom facility, which offers an enriching environment full of resources for our young learners.

What is SAILL?

SAILL is a preschool designed for children whose spoken language skills require consistent, targeted instruction and speech therapy in a full-day program.

When a child continues to experience speech delays or language impairments beyond the age of two, they may require more intensive intervention than the typical one-hour-per-month services offered by other programs. The SAILL program provides a comprehensive, language-rich preschool experience.

Led by a team of master early childhood educators, in collaboration with licensed speech-language therapists and teaching assistants, the program immerses children in a dynamic environment full of strategies and techniques aimed at closing learning gaps. If needed, Occupational and Physical Therapists are available to support children in developing gross and fine motor skills.

A Unique Approach to Speech and Literacy

SAILL is designed to support children with hearing loss and other communication challenges through a focus on speech production and literacy. Our experienced team work together to provide individualized instruction and therapy. We use various methods and activities to engage our students in meaningful learning, ensuring each child develops the skills necessary to succeed in school and beyond.

Our New Home at Rodef Shalom

The Rodef Shalom facility offers a dynamic space that complements our mission. Children in the SAILL program now have access to:

• a spacious art room where creativity flows,
• a recreational area for physical activities,
• a well-stocked library complete with a platform for acting out stories,
• an outdoor play area for hands-on exploration,
• and a fully equipped kitchen for sensory and life skills activities.

These resources allow us to provide a well-rounded, multisensory educational experience that makes learning fun and engaging for all students. By incorporating visual, auditory, and hands-on activities, we cater to diverse learning styles and ensure every child can grasp and retain new concepts. This holistic approach fosters academic growth and builds confidence and a love for learning in each student.

Community Partnerships and Free Speech Screenings

In addition to expanding our program space, we are proud to announce a new partnership with the Kingsley Association. Together, we will be offering a free speech screening clinic to their members and the community at large. This initiative is an important step in reaching more families in need of early intervention services, reinforcing our commitment to providing essential support for children’s communication development.

Tuition and Financial Aid

While there is a tuition fee to attend the SAILL program, DePaul School is committed to making our services accessible to all families. Financial aid is available for those who qualify, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to benefit from our specialized services. When it comes to a child’s success, every penny invested in their communication and literacy development pays off for years to come.

Registration of Interest in Placement into SAILL Preschool Program at DePaul School

If you would like to submit our Registration of Interest in Placement form, please click here. Complete and return this form to our main office at DePaul School, 6202 Alder Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.

Questions?

Do you have questions about our SAILL program? Or, perhaps you’d like to hear more about our new class location. We are committed to giving each child the opportunity to speak and have their voice heard and we’d love to chat with you. If you have any questions, reach out to us!