Camas High School (CHS) American Sign Language 2 (ASL 2) students are organizing a festival for today, Oct. 6, at 5:30 p.m. in the North Commons. The students created simple games, including basic ASL signs, prizes and other entertaining opportunities to promote learning ASL.
Admission is free, but they accept donations of $5 or any amount individuals are willing to give. However, donations are optional and unnecessary to participate in the festival.
“We want to be equitable and make sure we do not limit some students from attending due to the cost barrier,” ASL 1 and 2 teacher Neal Sulman said.
The money raised from this event will go towards the ASL club fund, used for things like field trips and guest speakers/signers.
This is the first ASL Fall Festival of CHS because there has not been as much interest in ASL in the past among the community. ASL classes at CHS have grown in popularity among students as of late, which is part of the reason the new ASL teachers want to bring all of their students together for this event.
“We wanted to showcase and highlight ASL 2 students’ learning and, at the same time, bring all the ASL students as well as the community together for a fun event,” Sulman said, “I think anytime students have a chance to apply learning outside the classroom in an authentic context, it is a great thing.”
The kids hope to have a good turnout at this event since they worked hard to create games for ASL 1 students and the Camas community.
“I’m excited for the festival. It shows people how important it is to learn about Deaf culture because many people are unaware,” ASL 2 student Gavin Stapleton said.
Students anticipate that this event will inform people about Deaf culture, spread awareness and encourage them to learn some of the language, even if it is just the basics.
“It allows participation from people trying to learn sign language,” ASL 2 student Jeremiah Buzan said.
Even if students are learning a different language or have little experience with signing, it is still an exciting opportunity to play easy games and win prizes. ASL 2 students encourage others to come to the North Commons today and play a few games.