NEISD students uplift others with sign language performance

Even though the physical doors of MacArthur High School have closed, ASL students are still signing to the music.

“I didn’t want the school to close because I love school, but it’s for the best,” the sixteen-year-old said.

MacArthur High School Sophomore Madison Wood was one of the American Sign Language (ASL) students who practiced all year for the school’s annual talent show.

She’s one of the American Sign Language (ASL) students who practiced all year for the school’s annual talent show.

“Learning the songs does take a bit of time because you are having to gloss the entire song, then learn the signs. Then, you have to incorporate it into the song so it does take a lot of time in and outside of school,” Wood added.

So, when the sign language performance was canceled, ASL teacher Tim Kitterman encouraged the students to perform at home and found a way for the show to go on.

“I wanted to cheer the kids up and maybe show it to some other people and teachers so that’s when I did the dancing video,” he said.

Kitterman said it was a much-need fun and alternative assignment for his students.

“They need some breaks, they need some fun things and positive things so I thought this would be a good way to encourage that,” he said.

Madison said she was happy to see the video compilation that her teacher took the time to put together for them.  

“I was excited because the ASL talent show is something I look forward to every single year so being able to do it virtually was really fun,” she explained.

“For me, the best part of that is that they become teachers because their videos live on for years,” Kitterman added.

The ASL class hopes that by sharing their virtual talent show with others, they’ll spread some positivity to many who need it right now.

“I feel so lucky to have the kids that I have; I love MacArthur because it’s been just amazing students. Every year, I’m astounded by what they do.”

Because #NEISDcares!

You can see the full video of the MacArthur High School ASL talent show performance here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNfKSxMZWzY&feature=youtu.be