Emma's ASL Corner
About
*CURRENTLY WORKING VIA VIDEO DUE TO COVID-19*
Hello!
My name is Emily and I am a Sign Language Interpretation Graduate in Michigan. I have worked at The Michigan School for the Deaf for the last 3 years in the preschool classroom and have fallen in love with teaching. I have also worked with and have been contracted as a tutor for middle and high school aged kids!
What I do:
Tutor kids in their native language to better help them understand subjects such as English, Math, Reading, and even ASL (translating back and forth between standard enlish, PSE, and GLOSS).
Goal:
To help Deaf students of all ages succeed in their education.
To assist parents who are new to ASL get their child the help they need through direct one on one communication.
To work with a variety of age groups, language levels, and backgrounds.
Educational/Work Experience:
2017 Graduate of Mott Community College (High Honors)
Degree: Associate's in Applied Science- Sign Language Interprer Education
One on One/Short Term Substitute/Tutor at Michigan School for the Deaf (October 2018-Present)
Age Groups: Pre K-12
Watching kids understand a concept or subject after struggling is the most fulfilling part of my job. Many times this includes the language itself. Watching language deprived students flourish and express themselves is something that will always keep me attacted to this job.
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
My process while working with students is to first assess their language level. Are they novice, intermedite, advanced, or native? I also look at their preferred method of communication including PSE (pigeon signed english), SIM-COM (Simultaneous Communication), ASL (American Sign Language), etc.
After this has been determined I ask students about their favorite and least favorite subjects and why. That way I can get the best sense of what we need to focus on. I also ask them about their hobbies, favorite movies, and other favorite things to build report and make them feel comfortable.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have an Associated degree in Sign Language Interpretation which is where I started my journey with ASL. I have also worked with the Deaf community both interpreting and working at the Deaf Institute in my commuinty. My job at the school includes working as a one on one aide for students with extreme language deprivation, behavioral issues, and special needs. My position has also included being a general and flex aide (working for multiple teachers and age groups), a substitute teacher, and an after school tutor for middle and high school students.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing: $15 per hour (can be negotiated for low income/in need families)
How did you get started teaching?
I have worked at The Michigan School for the Deaf the last 3 years in the preschool classroom. Our school has a wide range of students with language, disability, and background needs. During this time I also had the oppurtunity to work as as a Substitue teacher while my classroom teacher (Deaf) finished her Masters Degree in Deaf Education. During this time I worked closely with our other preschool teacher to set up lesson plans, assess student needs, and implement IEP's and BIP's for our students. During this time I fell in love with teaching and am looking to persue a teaching career in Deaf Education.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with a myriad of students with special needs including but not limited to:
Language Deprivation (mild-severe)
Behavioral Needs (mild-severe)
Special Needs (mental/physical)
Ages 2 1/2-26 (our school includes an extended adult program)
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Seeing studnets with language deprivation connect a sign to an object, express their needs, or ask for help in their native lanuage is the reason I love my job. The best moment I have had with a student was recently when I was asked to visit and help my student cope with being out of school due to the shutdown. I was able to surprise my student, who reacted with uncontrollable signing. Seeing a student so excited to express their feelings in their own language and be understood gave me great joy.
**This student started a year ago with no language, behavior issues, and emotional distress and with a lot of work is beinging to sign in full sentences and communicate more than his basic needs.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Go with your gut. If a tutor doesn't work for you that is OKAY! Find somebody you can understand, who you are comfortable with, and who challenges you academically! A comfortable learning environment is the most successfull!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
The best question a student can ask themselves is "Do I really need the help, or do I just want to be given the answer?". This question has made a huge difference in my educational experience both for myself and my students. Challenging yourself is an important way to learn and problem solve. You'll be surprised how much you can do if you challange youself. If you have tried to work on it and still can't find a solution, that's when you should ask for help!