The American Sign Language class at Shadow Hill High School helps students learn about more than just language. Providing opportunities for students to learn about the Deaf and hard of hearing community helps students within the DHH community feel comfortable and included.
Sarai Galindo (‘25), a hard of hearing student, feels that having an ASL class on campus is really important. “[Other students] can learn about my culture,” she said about the benefits of enrolling in the class. Her parents are also extremely happy that other students can learn about the DHH community, she said.
Ms. Reiger, the ASL teacher and interpreter, is enthusiastic about the prospect of students learning about the Deaf and hard of hearing community, and wants to see more students get involved.
“I think that this program is growing on its own just by word of mouth, kids telling other kids that they should take this class,” Reiger pointed out. “It’s kind of happening on its own,” she added.
Percy Young (‘25) says the ASL Club is a positive place on campus. “I feel included by being in the ASL club,” he explained. “We have a very good amount of students who actually know how to learn a new language, and that helps a lot with deaf students or hard of hearing [students], and includes everyone in our school,” he added.
