ALTMAR-PARISH-WILLIAMSTOWN CSD

Students from Altmar-Parish-Williamstown (APW) recently took part in a unique learning experience at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo through the CiTi BOCES Distance Learning American Sign Language (ASL) Pathway.

High school students are offered the opportunity to learn ASL through four college-level courses (ASL 101-104), many of which are transferrable for college credit. Students join the class via high-quality videoconferencing technology and are fully immersed in a non-verbal classroom setting.

Taught by Onondaga Community College professor Kim Amidon, the course focuses on developing ASL fluency while building an understanding and appreciation for Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Through live instruction, collaborative learning, and cultural exploration, students gain both communication skills and empathy.

One of the most anticipated moments for ASL 102 students is the annual “voice-off” trip to the zoo, where they use only ASL to describe animals, sounds and everything they encounter in a real-world setting. The students were also given a personalized sign name by Professor Amidon, a meaningful tradition in Deaf culture that marks an important milestone in their ASL journey.

“This program is such a special opportunity for students,” said CiTi Distance Learning Specialist Kristin Edwards. “It doesn’t just teach a language, it builds lifelong skills, cultural awareness and meaningful connections.”

Thanks to the partnership between CiTi BOCES and participating districts like APW, this ASL pathway continues to offer students a valuable educational experience that extends far beyond the classroom.

“Distance Learning at CiTi has been a trusted part of our regional education for more than 20 years,” Edwards said. “Our programs are thoughtfully designed with dedicated instructors and interactive content that gives students real opportunities.”