Educational programs for deaf children have been in existence in the United States for almost a century and a half. Through these instructional programs, much has been accomplished which contributes to the lives of those who are deaf, and, during recent years, significant advances have been made in understanding deafness and its treatment--especially in the area of communication. This has bearing on the competencies needed by teachers who are to instruct deaf boys and girls. Because of a demand for more precise understanding of these competencies, the broad study "Qualification and Preparation of Teachers of Exceptional Children" was undertaken. The information from this broad study which has bearing on the qualifications of teachers of deaf children is reported in this publication. Specifically, it includes findings on: (1) "competencies" needed by teachers of children who are deaf; (2) some opinions on the "proficiency" of some recently prepared teachers of the deaf; (3) "education" and "experience" for acquiring competence; and (4) a "summary statement including implications" for planning and research. Two techniques were used to gather information for this report. One was the use of inquiry forms; the other was the work of a committee of experts in the education of the deaf. A large proportion of the information in this bulletin was provided by 100 classroom teachers of deaf children and youth. The opinions of these special teachers were sought, since they were currently in close daily association with deaf children, and would be in a position to make practical judgments about the competencies and experiences which make teachers effective. The opinions present desirable professional standards rather than minimum standards for qualification and professional preparation. It is hoped they will serve to set goals for the future and offer guidelines against which many other ideas and opinions may be helpfully measured. The following are appended: (1) The Office of Education Study: "Qualification and Preparation of Teachers of Exceptional Children"; (2) Background Information on the 100 Teachers of Deaf Children; (3) Information on Statistical Procedures and Results; (4) Inquiry Form Used to Collect Information from the 100 Teachers of Deaf Children; and (5) Additional Information on Statistical Procedures and Results. (Contains 4 tables, 3 graphs, and 22 footnotes.) [This bulletin was prepared in collaboration with Mary A. Blair, Daniel T. Cloud, Powrie V. Doctor, Samuel A. Kirk, Harriet F. McLaughlin, Clarence D. O'Connor, and S. Richard Silverman. Best copy available has been provided.]