What is American Sign Language (ASL)?

ASL is a visual language used primarily by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community in the United States. It has its own grammar, syntax, and cultural context, making it a fully developed, independent language—not a direct translation of English.

Why is ASL important in professional environments?

ASL ensures accessible communication in education, healthcare, legal, and corporate settings. Providing ASL interpretation helps organizations comply with the ADA and foster inclusion for Deaf individuals.

How is ASL different from other sign languages?

Each sign language is unique. ASL, for instance, differs significantly from British Sign Language (BSL) and French Sign Language (LSF), despite historical influences. ASL has developed its own linguistic identity in the U.S.

Do I need a certified interpreter for ASL services?

Yes. Professional, certified ASL interpreters are trained in both language and cultural competency. This ensures accurate, respectful communication—especially in legal, medical, or educational contexts.

Can technology replace human ASL interpreters?

While tools like video remote interpreting (VRI) enhance accessibility, human interpreters remain essential—especially for nuanced, sensitive, or real-time interactions.

How can my organization offer better language access?

Start by assessing your communication needs, then partner with a language service provider like Language Network to offer ASL interpretation. Consider accessibility during event planning, onboarding, customer service, and internal communication.

How San Antonio Is Expanding ASL Access in Special Education

Enrollment in Texas public schools has remained relatively stable over the past year — but special education is telling a different story. In the 2023–2024 academic year alone, over 71,000 new students enrolled in special education programs across the state. San Antonio has felt this shift acutely, with some districts reporting a staggering 37% increase in students with special needs.

This surge is putting serious pressure on available resources — especially when it comes to communication access. One key area of focus: American Sign Language (ASL) in schools. San Antonio is actively working to improve ASL access in special education, offering a model that could inspire other cities facing similar challenges.

The Need for ASL in Special Education

According to the Disability Access Office in San Antonio, there are 59,064 individuals in the city who have reported having a hearing disability. This number, plus the data above, shows the need to consider ASL access in schools and other areas of life.

Subtitles and written language play a role in removing barriers. However, they aren’t sufficient for efficient communication. ASL interpretation and teaching ASL in schools fosters inclusivity. It allows everyone to engage in activities and learning. ASL in special education is a valuable tool. It boosts cognitive and linguistic development, as well as supporting social skills.

WIDA and ESSA Frameworks

When it comes to language access, several frameworks are in place to improve educational outcomes. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) promotes communication support for Deaf or hard of hearing students, including sign language in schools.

WIDA provides a framework, including standards, assessments, and resources, for English learners. As part of its accessibility and accommodations guidelines, it supports the use of American Sign Language for learners who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

San Antonio’s Approach

What makes San Antonio’s approach stand out is that it’s not one-size-fits-all. It blends well-designed programs with partnerships and technology. That means it can balance government ASL resources and other tools and support to meet the rising needs.

A new inclusive school welcomed its first students in 2024. It uses an integrative approach, putting the resources in place from the beginning. Let’s look at other initiatives in San Antonio that support ASL access.

Initiatives

The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) has a Deaf & Hard of Hearing (DHH) program. It supports students from birth to the age of 22. It includes specially designed instruction and a range of services. They include ASL interpreters for schools, certified DHH teachers, Deaf support specialists and audiologists.

Another initiative in San Antonio is disABILITYsa. Its Fiesta Especial focuses on inclusive educational opportunities. They’re designed to engage individuals with disabilities in celebrations of culture and diversity. It serves more than 2,500 children and adults with disabilities.

Partnerships

One of the strong points of the programs is that they find different ways to provide support. Certified teachers are good, but not always possible in every situation. That's where partnering with a language service provider can help.

The Deaf education services in San Antonio benefit from ASL interpreters and language service providers. It means that there are fewer gaps and a high standard of communication and compliance.

Technology

Alongside programs and language service partners, the approach also uses technology to meet needs. That includes assistive technology and using videos with subtitles. These elements alone support one-way communication, which is why Video Remote Interpreting in schools is also important.

Compliance and Adhering to the Legal Framework

Understanding how ASL developed is a great lesson in knowing why multiple approaches are best. The foundations of the language were laid at the American School for the Deaf, not long after it was founded.

Speaking and lip-reading were pressed upon people back then. It wasn’t until research showed that the language was complete on its own and the 1990 ADA that the use of ASL in public sectors was mandated.

The ADA

The Americans with Disabilities Act is still a cornerstone of ASL access to this day. In fact, compliance with the ADA is a critical part of language access in education. It sets out that Deaf, hard of hearing students and parents are entitled to equal access to all programs and activities offered by schools. Any federally funded program needs to provide accommodations, such as qualified ASL interpreters.

IEPs

Another cornerstone of ASL access is IEPs. Individualized Education Programs not only set out special education services, but they’re also legal documents. They ensure students with disabilities get access to free and appropriate public education.

Lessons for Other Cities

San Antonio is showing how special education needs can be met with ASL access. The key takeaway for other cities is that multiple tools and initiatives are needed to deliver the support required.

These lessons don't just apply to education settings. They're relevant to other government departments and agencies. For example, when considering ASL for hospitals, the needs can be met in similar ways. Technology and ASL interpreters in medical settings improve compliance and communication.

Moreover, partnering with trusted language service providers (LSPs), such as Language Network, is vital. They ensure access to qualified ASL interpreters. In turn, this helps school districts and government agencies meet compliance standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is ASL access important in special education?

ASL access ensures Deaf and hard of hearing students can fully engage in learning. It supports cognitive, linguistic, and social development while promoting inclusive education environments.

What’s driving the increased demand for ASL in Texas schools?

In 2023/24, Texas saw an increase of over 71,000 special education enrollments. San Antonio, in particular, experienced a 37% rise, highlighting the urgent need for accessible communication options like ASL in classrooms.

What initiatives has San Antonio implemented?

San Antonio ISD has a comprehensive Deaf & Hard of Hearing program, offering ASL interpreters, DHH-certified teachers, Deaf support specialists, and audiologists. Initiatives like disABILITYsa's Fiesta Especial also promote inclusivity through cultural events.

How does technology support ASL access?

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI), assistive technologies, and subtitled video content help improve communication. While these tools enhance access, they complement rather than replace human interpreters.

What laws protect ASL access in schools?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires schools to provide equal access to education, including qualified ASL interpreters. Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are also legal tools that ensure necessary accommodations for students with disabilities.

What role do partnerships play in improving ASL access?

By partnering with trusted language service providers like Language Network, schools can ensure consistent access to certified ASL interpreters, bridging gaps where certified staff may be unavailable.

Can San Antonio’s model be applied elsewhere?

Yes. The multi-layered approach—combining staff, partnerships, tech, and compliance—can be replicated in other cities, schools, hospitals, and public agencies to improve ASL access and equity.

San Antonio’s Push for Communication Access in Special Education