Organization

The John Tracy Clinic Academy for Professional Studies (JTCAPS), a division of John Tracy Clinic, was established in September 1996 to provide continuing educational opportunities for teachers and other professionals who work with families of children with hearing loss. JTCAPS's ongoing commitment began in September 1953. For the past 45 years, the John Tracy Clinic and the University of Southern California have offered a joint master's-level, resident program in teacher education in the area of deaf and hard-of-hearing. JTCAPS expands on this same commitment by offering distance education courses designed for teachers and other professionals working with families whose children have special needs.The John Tracy Clinic was founded in 1942 by Mrs. Spencer (Louise Treadwell) Tracy and named for the deaf son of Mr. and Mrs. Spencer Tracy. It was officially incorporated in October 1943 as a place where hope, guidance, and encouragement were offered to families of young children who are deaf and hard-of-hearing through onsite and distance education courses.Distance education courses offered to professionals through JTCAPS focus on content that deals with the special educational needs of children with hearing loss and other young children who may be at risk. With the more than 55 years of experience in the fields of deaf education, distance education, and teacher education, John Tracy Clinic Academy for Professional Studies continues its leadership role in deaf education.