Elementary Programs

Tara MacTigue is the Youth and Family Support Specialist for the Elementary Program at FCD. Born and raised in Maryland, Tara earned a Bachelor of Science in Deaf Studies from Towson University and went on to complete a two-year Interpreter Training Certificate Program. In 2023, Tara relocated to St. Petersburg, Florida, to pursue a career in K–12 educational interpreting. Through her work, she discovered a passion for making a more direct impact in the Deaf community, particularly in the lives of Deaf children and their families. This passion ultimately led her to join the FCD team. Tara can be reached at Tara@fcdpinellas.org

 Kate Nikic is the Youth and Family Support Specialist Assistant for the Elementary program. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in American Sign Language Interpreting from the University of South Florida. Kate is deeply committed to advocacy within the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community, a passion shaped by both her professional training and her personal experiences supporting her family. She strives to empower families with the tools, language access, and support they need to thrive.  You can contact her via email: Kate@fcdpinellas.org 

 (Raising  Expectations & Achievement of Children with Hearing Loss) 

Cultural and linguistic enrichment opportunities are provided for Deaf and hard-of-hearing elementary-aged children, their siblings, and children with guardians who have hearing loss. Students participate in afterschool programs and special events designed to support both mental and physical development. Current activities include, but are not limited to, robotics, life skills, tutoring, STEAM, and Girl Scouts. 

     Learning Is For Everyone

The LIFE Program is a mentorship initiative in which students are paired with adult Deaf or hard of hearing mentors. Mentors meet with students at least once a month, and often more frequently. During these sessions, students learn how to navigate the world alongside their mentors. Topics include life skills, social development, and self-advocacy. The goal of the program is for students to gradually take on increasing responsibility, building confidence and independence, until they are prepared to become mentors for future participants.

 Not sure where to bring the kids during days off of school? 

At FCD, students are provided day camps during certain days that school is not in session. Students will participate in fun field trips, academic support, recreational activities, and much more. 

 The Family Center on Deafness Girl Scouts Program is proud to host the only Deaf and Hard of Hearing Girl Scout Troop in the state of Florida. This unique program provides girls with the opportunity to develop leadership skills, build lifelong friendships, and engage in community service projects in an environment that celebrates their language and culture. Through hands-on activities, teamwork, and mentorship, our troop empowers members to grow in confidence while making a positive impact in the community.