What is SRVOP?

The Shared Reading Video Outreach Project (SRVOP) is an adaptation of the Shared Reading Project model developed by David R. Schleper of Gallaudet University's Clerc Center. The program makes use of Washington State's educational telecommunications system called the K-20 Network, that provides both internet access and live interactive videoconferencing capability to more than 300 school districts, colleges and universities across the state of Washington.

SRVOP uses videoconferencing systems located in local school districts and Educational Service Districts to offer a reading enhancement program to deaf children, their families, and educators. For the first time, isolated deaf children living in remote areas—as well as their parents, other family members, and teachers—can see, interact with, and learn from skilled Deaf adults and from other deaf children.

This program originates at Puget Sound Educational Service District (ESD), located near Seattle, and is a division of the Washington School for the Deaf's Outreach Department. Supplemental training and discussion groups for educational staff, provided via live interactive videoconferencing, are facilitated by a mentor teacher of the deaf throughout the year.