The MKSD Lower School Residential Program is located in the same building as the academic program and serves children ages six to twelve years old.  Recently renovated by Americorps, the walls are painted with murals and  have ceilings that portray a star filled sky.

The Lower School Program is a family-like atmosphere where students are continually learning through experiences. Parents and Guardians are encouraged to visit and attend special events and activities.  Appropriate behavior, manners, hygiene, and development of social skills are emphasized in the program. Group activities, special projects, arts and crafts, cooking, and field trips fill the afternoon and evening hours. Students have the opportunity to develop their gross motor skills through gym or outdoor activities.

Several times a week students do special projects in the computer lab to enhance their learning skills. Students are encouraged to be responsible for their homework and tutoring is available when necessary.  The residential staff closely coordinates homework and long term projects with the students' academic instructors.  

Intramural recreational activities are coordinated by the Middle School Residential Program. Providing students the opportunity to participate in recreational activities is the responsibility of the sending school district and should be a part of the development of the IEP. Day students can participate in the MKSD Residential Program  recreational activities by the provision of a late bus, or residential placement for the length of the activity.  

Due to their unique communication needs, most Deaf students are isolated in their neighborhoods.  Participation in the Residential Program allows young Deaf children interaction with their peers and the residential staff in a direct communication environment. Staff members facilitate language development through their modeling on language.  The residential program is an arena where incidental learning occurs throughout the afternoon and evening hours.

Interaction with peers is essential to the development of social skills. This interaction leads to social acceptance, friendships, and healthy self-esteem. The development of healthy self-esteem is critical to the young child.

The residential program is in operation Monday through Thursday, and bus transportation is arranged by the sending school districts for Monday morning and Friday afternoon.