HI SCR51

Request Department of Education to offer American Sign Language courses in at least one high school per complex area statewide, currently available at only three high schools.

Cite national trends showing American Sign Language is the third most studied language in America with 1,248 percent growth in public high schools offering courses between 1992 and 2004.

Identify benefits for public school students with deaf family members to develop communication skills and note that American Sign Language fluency is a marketable job skill.

Require Department of Education to submit a report to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2017 Regular Session convening on the status of establishing American Sign Language instruction.

Direct transmission of certified copies to the Chairperson of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Education.