Elementary students learn sign language

BY DARRELL HALEN

When Yasmina Hinkle said “good afternoon” to teacher Kelly Masiello, the 6-year-old student didn’t say it with words.

She used her hands.

Yasmina is one of several Pelham Elementary School students who is learning American Sign Language after school.

It’s a new way of expressing themselves the kids said they find interesting and enjoyable.

“I thought it might be fun to learn a different way to speak with people,” Yasmina said.

Yasmina and other students recently sat in a circle next to Masiello and practiced a variety of words and phrases, including how to introduce themselves, with their hands.

“Show me ‘yes.’ Show me ‘no,’” Masiello instructed the youngsters. She like what she saw.
“Nice job.”

She also taught the students how to say “I love you.” They’re also learning how to say other phrases, such as “I love Dad,” “I have a sister,” and “I have a friend.”

Through the sign language program she’s developed at the school, Masiello teaches basic hand positions, basic signs, phrases, songs and finger spelling to students.

The 24 first- and second-graders in the basic level class she is currently teaching are learning sign language one afternoon a week after school over six weeks.

In the winter, Masiello will teach an advanced class to two dozen third-, fourth- and fifth-graders. As part of that class, students will learn how to say the Pledge of Allegiance and how to communicate the Lee Greenwood song “Proud to Be an American.”

Because the youngsters are communicating with their hands, and not their mouths, they make little noise.

“There’s not much talking in this class,” Masiello said to a pair of visitors. “It is the quietest club you’ll visit this year.”

It’s also a popular one. Masiello said she received 110 applications to be in the club this year, and randomly drew 24 names from a bag.

“It’s fun. It’s interesting,” said second-grader Shannon Weisensee.

Andrew Schneider, a first-grade student, said sign language is easy to learn. Masiello said she’s been impressed how well the students have absorbed it.

“They pick up on it and use it in the classroom,” Masiello said. “They talk to each other in the hallway.”

And it’s not only words and phrases they are learning to convey. When Masiello asks the students to  applaud, they collectively raise and shake their hands in the air.