By Bob Katzen

This bill would require that American Sign Language (ASL) is taught in all Bay State public elementary and secondary schools to increase interactions between hearing persons and deaf and hard-of-hearing persons, as well as children with autism. Current law allows but does not require schools to teach ASL.

“I sponsored the legislation to promote greater equity and inclusion in our public school systems,” said Sen. Jake Oilveira (D-Ludlow). “In recent years, it has become apparent that instruction in American Sign Language provides children with autism with increased opportunities for education and development. It is visually based, unaided and provides a mode of quick communication. American Sign Language is a language our students should get the opportunity to learn in our public school system, and it supports inclusion and involvement for all students.”