Washington County school board to explore adding American Sign Language classes

American Sign Language, used by the deaf to communicate through movements of the hands and face, is a step closer to being a new course in Washington County Public Schools.

Washington County Board of Education President Melissa Williams asked the curriculum and instruction committee at a business meeting last week to begin exploring how to add a new sign language class for the next school year.

"At one of our previous meetings, we had some discussion from board members as a result of some public comment made by individuals regarding American Sign Language," Williams said.

"And, there was quite a bit of interest expressed, I believe on the part of board members," she said. "I was just wondering if it's something that the curriculum and instruction committee could look at the feasibility of adding it to our program of studies?"

Superintendent Boyd Michael said that is something already being looked at by school system staff.

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The school board heard from members of the deaf community at a business meeting last month, asking that American Sign Language be added to the school curriculum.

Parents said that it can be difficult for their deaf children to learn not only English, but other world languages that are needed to graduate high school. They said the language barriers are difficult.

Several deaf people, who spoke through a sign-language interpreter, said they think it's a good investment for Washington County.

Gary Willow, associate superintendent for curriculum and instruction for WCPS, said some WCPS students were taking sign language courses at Hagerstown Community College.

Willow said courses could be arranged with credits earned at WCPS. He suggested it's something the school system could look at for next year.

Several school board members said they thought it was a good idea.

"It certainly created awareness, and I'm one who is interested in exploring the possibilities," she said. "Thank you for coming out and making us aware," Williams said at the time.

Meanwhile, school board member April Zentmeyer, a member of the curriculum and instruction committee, told Williams last week it is something the committee will look at.

Sherry Greenfield is the Education Reporter, covering Washington County Public Schools and the Washington County Board of Education. 

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Washington County Board of Education could add sign language classes