DARS Employees Make Learning a New Language Fun!!

As the number of people with hearing loss increases, education and sensitivity awareness are becoming increasingly important. Accordingly, the Division for Rehabilitation Services' Tyler Field Office has recognized the need for American Sign Language training.

Rehabilitation service technicians, counselors, and support staff expressed a desire to communicate better with DARS consumers who are deaf or hard of hearing to help them achieve their goals for employment and independent living. Bolivia Standfield, Tyler Field Office Counselor for the Deaf, volunteered to provide an introduction to basic conversation, including American Sign Language, finger spelling, and cultural information. The Tyler group meets every Tuesday and Thursday during their lunch time to learn and practice basic American Sign Language.

Ms. Standfield says, "I am so pleased with our first class because everyone has been very receptive to learning more about the deaf culture. It has created more sensitivity and knowledge of our consumers, which has resulted in a positive outcome meeting and greeting our consumers. Our staff has made this a very successful class!"

For more information on how you can learn American Sign Language contact DARS Inquiries Unit at 1-800-628-5115.