When people think of learning a new language, sign language may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but to seniors in ASL three through five, sign language has been a big part of their high school experience. On Tuesday, May 6, seniors in upper-level ASL classes participated in a showcase, which was the culmination of their hard work throughout high school.
Seniors, family and friends gathered in the auditorium to watch videos of students performing songs of their choice in sign language. Students in ASL III performed two songs, one solo and one as a group. Students in ASL IV and V performed three songs, a solo, duet and group song.
“It honestly felt great, I’ve never performed ASL for that many people and it was really rewarding. I was super nervous before performing, but in the end it went well and I’m so glad I did it,” senior Megan Anderson said.
Preparation for the showcase began after spring break, as students began working collaboratively on their class song. They chose the song, interpreted the song, decided the signs and choreographed together as a class. Students practiced inside and outside of class time to master their solo and duet performances. Since some words were not part of the official ASL language, students had to improvise.
“I had to gloss the songs, which means choose how I want to translate them, then learn any signs I didn’t know and practice a lot,” Anderson said.
The showcase was a collaborative effort between teachers, students and parents. Teachers helped with the behind-the-scenes preparation, such as creating a program and reserving the date in the auditorium. Parents brought in cakes, food and drinks. Theater teacher Jamaal Soloman and the AV crew did lights and sound. TV production teacher Donna Parker provided the video equipment, so seniors Mac Anderson and Antonio Pizza filmed the performance. Juniors in ASL IV and V and ASL Honor Society students hosted and set up.
For many students, this was their last high school performance. With the school year winding down, the ASL showcase came with many emotions.
“Teaching ASL is my passion, I love watching the students’ growth in becoming fluent in ASL,” ASL teacher Barbara Chaves said. “It is always bittersweet. I know they will be successful. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach them and be part of their ASL family.”
