This fall, Mount Paran Christian School (MPCS) is proud to announce the addition of American Sign Language (ASL) to its world language curriculum. The new high school course offering reflects MPCS’s ongoing commitment to equipping students with diverse communication tools and fostering a deeper understanding of global and cultural perspectives.
ASL will be offered to high school students as a full world language option and to fifth-graders as part of the exploratory program. The high school ASL course will be taught mainly in the target language, fully immersing students in the visual and nonverbal aspects of the language. This immersive environment mirrors how ASL is used in real-world communication and encourages students to engage deeply with facial expressions, body language, and spatial awareness.
With the integration of ASL into the world language department, students will now have the opportunity to explore one of the most expressive and visually rich languages in the world. More than a means of communication, ASL introduces students to the vibrant Deaf community and encourages meaningful engagement with nonverbal communication — an increasingly vital skill in today’s interconnected world.
“American Sign Language is a beautiful, expressive language that has its own grammar, structure, and cultural richness, just like other spoken languages,” said ASL teacher Laura Kehoe. “Learning ASL offers a powerful way to connect with the Deaf community and expand our understanding of human communication.”
MPCS offers Spanish language starting in preschool age three as well as French in middle and high school. The introduction of ASL further supports MPCS’s mission to prepare servant-leaders who honor God, love others, and walk in truth. By embracing ASL, the school is not only broadening linguistic choices but also cultivating empathy, awareness, and respect for the people who use all modes of communication.
To learn more about Mount Paran Christian School’s academic excellence, visit mtparanschool.com/academics.
