My cousin, who relies heavily on American Sign Language (ASL) for communication, often faces challenges when interacting with adults, particularly teachers, unfamiliar with this form of language. This situation could portray a glimpse of the struggles facing hundreds of deaf or hard-of-hearing students in Orange County alone.

Despite the fact that ASL is the third most used language in the United States, many educators lack the fundamental ability to communicate effectively with students who rely on it [Gallaudet University research, 2019]. This stark reality poses a formidable barrier to the academic success and social inclusion of these students.

By integrating ASL courses into teacher training in Orange County, we can equip our educators with the necessary skills to communicate effectively with all their students. The acquisition of this knowledge will not only foster inclusive education but also help students who communicate through ASL to excel academically and socially in mainstream classroom settings.

This isn't just an issue of practical communication; it's an issue of equity, inclusivity, and commitment to education for all.

Let's bridge this communication gap. By requiring ASL courses for teachers in Orange County, we ensure all students have a fair chance at success. Join us in calling for this vital change. Sign the petition today.