Yorktown CSD Launches American Sign Language Course

We are excited to announce the launch of our new American Sign Language (ASL) course for middle and high school students. This innovative program fosters inclusivity and communication while promoting a deeper understanding of the Deaf community.

Recognizing the growing interest among students to engage with diverse languages and cultures, the District identified ASL as a valuable addition to its foreign language curriculum. Few districts in the region offer ASL, making this opportunity even more special for students.

“Introducing American Sign Language into our curriculum reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment,” said Mrs. Deirdre Amerling, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “This course not only opens doors for students to communicate with the Deaf community, but also enriches their educational experience by broadening their cultural perspectives.”

Key features of the ASL course include interactive learning and cultural awareness. Students will engage in hands-on activities, role-playing, and practical exercises to develop their ASL skills. The course also includes lessons on Deaf culture, history, and the role of ASL in the Deaf community, promoting a well-rounded understanding of the language.

Students enrolled in the course expressed a wide range of reasons for wanting to learn ASL, including personal connections, future career aspirations, and a desire to better understand and engage with the Deaf community.

“I was inspired to learn ASL because I have hearing loss myself," shared seventh grader Abigail Brackett. "I thought it seemed cool to learn how to talk to other people who are Deaf. I’m looking forward to learning how to sign my friends' and families' names.”

Aislyn Alongi, also a seventh grader, echoed this excitement, saying, "I’ve met Deaf people who speak it fluently, and it interested me. I’m most looking forward to fully learning the language and being able to communicate with the Deaf community better.”

Other students were drawn to the course by a desire to broaden their communication skills. "I wanted to learn ASL because I can use it to help kids when I grow up as a doctor," said seventh grader Ophelia Cheng.

The course is being taught by Ms. Molly Dineen-Carey, who has used ASL throughout her teaching career in working with deaf or hard-of-hearing students. The ASL course has been carefully designed to meet the New York State Education Department’s requirements for foreign language instruction. Students who successfully complete the course will earn credits that fulfill the state’s foreign language requirements for high school graduation, making it a valuable addition to their academic journey.

“This course is a remarkable opportunity for our students to engage with a new language that not only meets educational requirements but also opens their eyes to a rich cultural experience,” said Mrs. Amerling. “By learning ASL, our students will gain essential communication skills and a deeper appreciation for diversity that will serve them well throughout their lives.

“We’re thrilled to offer this new course and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our students and the community,” Mrs. Amerling added. “Learning ASL is more than just acquiring a new language; it’s about embracing a culture and enhancing one’s ability to connect with others.”