INTERPRETIVE

  The Board of Education has approved the provision of three
  years of instruction in American Sign Language (ASL) for
  foreign language credit toward an advanced studies diploma. 
  Courses to satisfy this requirement must follow the
  "Framework for Instruction in American Sign Language in
  Virginia's Public Schools," adopted by the Board of
  Education at its March 1998 meeting.  The following course
  codes have been established:

     American Sign Language I           5990
     American Sign Language II          5995
     American Sign Language III         5997

  Local School divisions must make clear to parents and
  students that some, but not all, colleges and universities
  accept ASL for foreign language credit.  Parents and
  students should be advised to find out if ASL is accepted at
  the college or university for which admission is sought. 
  School divisions offering three years of instruction in
  American Sign Language should include this information in
  all course of study documents.

  The Board of Education also approved requirements for the
  licensure of teachers of ASL.  These requirements will be
  incorporated into the licensure regulations after completion
  of the Administrative Process Act procedure (APA).  Until
  the APA procedure is completed, teachers of ASL must hold a
  license in one of the endorsement areas currently specified
  in the "Regulations Governing the Licensure of School
  Personnel."

  Persons who desire a copy of the "Framework for Instruction
  in American Sign Language in Virginia's Public Schools"
  should contact Lissa Power-deFur at the Department of
  Education.  Dr. Power-deFur can be reached at 804/225-2818
  or lpower-d@pen.k12.va.us.  TDD users may call 804/371-0655. 
  Questions concerning licensure may be addressed to Patty
  Pitts, Division of Teacher Education and Licensure.  Ms.
  Pitts can be reached at 804/225-2022.


  PDS/lpdf