In the United States, approximately 3-4% of the population identifies as Deaf or Hard of Hearing, with a significant concentration in the Rochester Metropolitan area. The current shortage of certified ASL teachers poses a challenge to existing programs in New York State K-12 schools. This session will aim to explore the existing challenges with ASL teacher education and provide a platform for collaboration to identify solutions and to bridge the gaps. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in discussions to identify barriers and move towards improving ASL teacher education in order to pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals.
