Yorktown Launches New ASL Course
Yorktown Central School District is excited to announce the launch of its new American Sign Language (ASL) course for middle and high school students. This innovative program fosters inclusivity and communication while promoting a deeper understanding of the Deaf community.
Recognizing the growing interest among students to engage with diverse languages and cultures, the district identified ASL as a valuable addition to its foreign language curriculum. Few districts in the region offer ASL, making this opportunity even more special for students.
“Introducing American Sign Language into our curriculum reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment,” said Deirdre Amerling, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction. “This course not only opens doors for students to communicate with the Deaf community, but also enriches their educational experience by broadening their cultural perspectives.”
Key features of the ASL course include interactive learning and cultural awareness. Students will engage in hands-on activities, role-playing, and practical exercises to develop their ASL skills. The course also includes lessons on Deaf culture, history, and the role of ASL in the Deaf community, promoting a well-rounded understanding of the language.
Students enrolled in the course expressed a wide range of reasons for wanting to learn ASL, including personal connections, future career aspirations, and a desire to better understand and engage with the Deaf community.
“I was inspired to learn ASL because I have hearing loss myself," shared seventh grader Abigail Brackett. "I thought it seemed cool to learn how to talk to other people who are Deaf. I’m looking forward to learning how to sign my friends' and families' names.”
Aislyn Alongi, also a seventh grader, echoed this excitement, saying, "I’ve met Deaf people who speak it fluently, and it interested me. I’m most looking forward to fully learning the language and being able to communicate with the Deaf community better.”
Other students were drawn to the course by a desire to broaden their communication skills. "I wanted to learn ASL because I can use it to help kids when I grow up as a doctor," said seventh grader Ophelia Cheng.
The course is being taught by Ms. Molly Dineen-Carey, who has used ASL throughout her teaching career in working with deaf or hard-of-hearing students. The ASL course has been carefully designed to meet the New York State Education Department’s requirements for foreign language instruction. Students who successfully complete the course will earn credits that fulfill the state’s foreign language requirements for high school graduation, making it a valuable addition to their academic journey.
“This course is a remarkable opportunity for our students to engage with a new language that not only meets educational requirements but also opens their eyes to a rich cultural experience,” said Mrs. Amerling. “By learning ASL, our students will gain essential communication skills and a deeper appreciation for diversity that will serve them well throughout their lives.
“We’re thrilled to offer this new course and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on our students and the community,” Mrs. Amerling added. “Learning ASL is more than just acquiring a new language; it’s about embracing a culture and enhancing one’s ability to connect with others.”
Yorktown Students Chosen for NYSSMA All-State
Congratulations to senior Emily Tian (Symphony Orchestra - Cello) and junior Jacqueline Negri (Treble Chorus - Soprano 1) on their selection to the 2024 NYSSMA All-State Performing Ensemble!
Both Emily and Jacqueline will showcase their talents at the NYSSMA All-State Conference in Rochester from December 5 to 8. The event involves intensive rehearsals, leading to grand finale concerts featuring talented musicians from around the state.
We’re so proud of their accomplishments and can’t wait to see them shine!
Five Seniors Named National Merit Semifinalists
We are proud to announce that five Yorktown High School seniors — Domenick Fedele, Karen Yang, Chinmayi Goyal, Emily Tian, and Norah Yang — have been named semifinalists in the prestigious 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program! This remarkable achievement places them among the top-performing high school seniors in the nation.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has recognized over 16,000 semifinalists in this year's competition. These outstanding students now have the opportunity to compete for a share of nearly $26 million in National Merit Scholarships, which will be awarded in the spring.
To advance in the competition, semifinalists must submit a detailed scholarship application and meet additional criteria. Finalists will be announced in February 2025, with about 95% of semifinalists expected to qualify. Roughly half of the finalists will go on to win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the prestigious title of Merit Scholar.
Out of more than 1.3 million juniors from around 21,000 high schools who took the 2023 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, less than 1% earned the honor of becoming semifinalists.
Congratulations to Domenick, Karen, Chinmayi, Emily, and Norah!
Crompond Students Honor 9/11 Hero and Embrace Community Spirit
On the anniversary of 9/11, fourth graders in Ms. Courtemanche’s class at Crompond Elementary School honored the memory of Welles Crowther, “The Man in the Red Bandana,” who heroically saved lives during the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Crowther’s story served as a powerful lesson in courage, selflessness, and the importance of community.
Inspired by Crowther’s bravery, the students discussed how they, too, can make a difference in their communities. Ideas ranged from helping elderly neighbors with yard work to donating to local food pantries and simply spreading kindness. They captured their thoughts on paper and added them to their "Caring for Our Community Chain" as a symbol of their commitment to helping others.
Each student received a red bandana, which they will use in a meaningful way, such as tying it to a backpack or wearing it during sports activities. This visual reminder will encourage them to keep finding ways to give back.
Later this month, Ms. Courtemanche will bring the "Caring for Our Community Chain" to New York City during the Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk and place it near Welles Crowther’s name at the 9/11 Memorial.
YCSD Welcomes Chef Tony!
Brookside, Crompond, and Mohansic students enjoyed lunchtime treats this week as Chef Tony DiStefano from Whitsons Culinary Group served up delicious grilled cheese sandwiches!
After preparing the meals fresh on-site, Chef Tony shared stories from his travels. He visits Whitsons schools across the country to create special meals for students and train staff to ensure top quality. Chef Tony will continue his tour next week with visits to MESMS and YHS!
Back to School Photos
Thank you to all the YCSD families who sent in their wonderful first-day photos. Please click here to view the complete gallery.
Yorktown Central School District
Website: www.yorktown.org
Location: 2725 Crompond Road, Yorktown Heights, NY, USA
Phone: 914-243-8000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YorktownCSD/
Twitter: @YorktownCSD