Long Beach Island Foundation hosts American Sign Language course through summer

Photo via Google
Course participants will learn the language by
studying its history and playing interactive games.

Communication in its many forms is key to understanding the area’s diverse social culture. The Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts and Sciences, located at 120 Long Beach Blvd. in Loveladies, will offer an American Sign Language class to interested participants on Fridays from July 11 to Aug. 15. Certified ASL instructor Katie Smith will lead the course from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

“Learning about ASL is not only about the language but understanding the people who use it daily in our society,” said Amy Carreño, director of public programs at the LBIF. “This class is a great opportunity to learn a new language and learn of the obstacles deaf people have overcome and the advances that they have made.”

The classes will cover the basics of ASL, from the alphabet to common vocabulary. Students will explore the depths of deaf culture by studying its rich history, watching ASL music videos and playing games.

Registration for the entire course costs $80 per person, or $70 with an LBIF membership. The daily fee is $20, or $15 for LBIF members.

For more information, visit lbifoundation.org or call 609-494-1241.

— Kelley Anne Essinger

This article was published in The SandPaper.