Michigan high school students can fulfill their world language graduation requirement by studying American Sign Language (ASL). The Michigan Department of Education recognizes ASL as a world language, allowing it to count toward graduation credits. 

Through the Michigan Department of Civil Rights division (MCL – Section 380.1157b): The board of a school district may grant high school credit in a foreign language to a pupil enrolled in high school who has satisfactorily completed a high school course offered in American sign language or who has attained proficiency in American sign language outside of a public or private high school curriculum. Michigan.gov

Students can enroll in ASL courses offered by their high schools to earn ASL language credit. These courses are designed to develop receptive and expressive proficiency in ASL, aiming for a level equivalent to two credits at the high school level for spoken and written languages.

Learn about Michigan’s ASL endorsement, Deaf and Hard of Hearing endorsement and Full-Year Permit here: Michigan.gov

If a high school does not offer ASL courses, students have alternative options including:

• Online Courses: Students can take ASL courses through accredited online platforms. For instance, Michigan Virtual offers ASL courses, such as American Sign Language 1A and 2A, focusing on everyday communication and cultural knowledge.
  Michigan Virtual
  
  
• Dual Enrollment: Students may enroll in ASL courses at local community colleges or universities. Credits earned can often be transferred to fulfill high school language requirements.

Students should work with their school counselors to ensure that the chosen ASL course aligns with graduation requirements and is recognized by the school district. Additionally, students who have attained proficiency in ASL outside of a formal high school curriculum may be eligible for credit.

By pursuing these avenues, Michigan high school students can effectively earn ASL language credits toward their graduation requirements. 

High school students with an ASL background can pursue higher education to become Sign Language Interpreters or Deaf Education Teachers in Michigan.

Learn more about Michigan’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing higher education locations, free college, grants and scholarships, and jobs: https://optimise.education/deaf-education/

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About OPTIMISE

OPTIMISE attracts, prepares, and retains diverse and qualified personnel to help advance individuals with disabilities (Birth to 26 years). 

The OPTIMISE Task Force, Core Team, and Action Teams work with many partners, including Michigan’s leading education organizations and legislature, to reduce barriers and align licensing for special educators. This work includes working with all levels of education to accomplish this goal.

OPTIMISE promotes ten professions within Michigan’s special education field, their funding options, and steps to jumpstart a career in special education. 

Join a great group of dedicated people who help individuals with disabilities excel.

Go to: OPTIMISE.education