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    ​​Certification Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPGs)

    ​CSPG 41 - American Sign Language (ASL) PK-12

    ​Instructional Area Code 4003
    Modified: August 1, 2023

    American Sign Language (ASL) is identified as a world language in the Pennsylvania Public School Code.  American Sign Language is a complete and autonomous human language with its own unique grammar and is frequently used as a form of visual-spatial communication. 

    A person holding a valid certificate for ASL is qualified to teach ASL courses to students in grades PK-12.

    Certification Assignment

    An educator holding a valid ASL PK-12 certificate may teach ASL courses and programs to students in grades PK-12 for world language credit, as elective credit, or as non-credit exploratory courses, including fundamental concepts and structures of communication, culture, and traditions of the communities using ASL.

    Restrictions

    • An American Sign Language PK-12 (4003) certificate is required when course credit is awarded.
    • The Hearing-Impaired PK-12 (9205) instructional certificate is required to teach deaf and hearing-impaired students with an Individualized Education Plan.
    • Only Hearing-Impaired PK-12 (9205) instructional certificate holders who pass the ASL content test may apply to add the subject area to their certificate without completing a ASL preparation program.

    Special Considerations 

    • World language certificate holders, including ASL certified teachers, may teach non-credit exploratory courses in any language including the culture and tradition of the particular communities using that language, including ASL. 
    • An educator certified in this field may:
      • Provide professional development in their area of collegial studies.
      • Serve in the role of mentor/advisor; and
      • Assist students in understanding how to read content area materials. 

    References

    24 P.S. §15-1524 Recognition of American Sign Language courses; CSPG 62 – Hearing Impaired PK-12; CSPG 45 – World Languages PK-12.

    Related References

    §14.105 Personnel (a) Paraprofessionals. (4)(b) Educational Interpreters.

    This revision supersedes all earlier CSPGs carrying this number and/or addressing this subject. Previous printing dates on this subject: June 1, 2015.

    Summary of Changes

    ​Date of Revisions
    		​Major Changes to CSPG #41
    ​7/2023
    • ​Updated formatting and terminology.
    • Clarified that ASL certification is required to teach ASL courses for credit.
    • Clarified that any world language-certified teacher may teach exploratory, non-credit ASL courses.
    ​7/2018
    • Updated the pathways to certification.
    • Updated the staffing restrictions and information.
    ​6/2015
    • Created the first ASL CSPG.
    • Listed proposed pathways to certification.