Showing posts with label deaf culture. Show all posts
Showing posts with label deaf culture. Show all posts
Monday, October 21, 2013
Husband says this all the time
"You never realize how good things were, until you no longer have it"
My Husband is a smart man. An extremely hard worker. He loves his family and does what he can to make sure we are all happy and safe. So he knowing the trouble we are having in a very important matter, Hurts.
Having Moved so many times. Having seen friends and family go through different school systems because We have luckily found life long friends in every place we have lived, We can kind of get the feel to what schools work and why. Hawaii Is now our families 2nd school district for our own kids.
In the DOD school system on base in WA. While Emily's school didn't have the best ratings, her teacher was FANTABULOUS! Loved him. She was half day, and I still do not get how he managed to teach everything she knew to 20 kids in just 2 hrs a day. WITH NO AIDES! No help! Just him. You Rock Mr. T. Sophie's School on McChord had better ratings, and She had an awesome willing and amazing Teacher, Hi Mrs. Ellison, we miss you. Even Though she used S.E.E and There was an ASL interp. At the same time (which can cause confusion) and even though it was a mixed special needs class, Mrs.E and her helpers were the best. They were tuned in, on point, did everything they could to make sure Sophie Thrived. They started the love Sophie has for learning.
last year! NOT ONCE, was I called into the school, or got calls about Students pushing, kicking, or other harmful moments caused by a student, to Sophie. Was I called about injuries? OF COURSE! McChord and her Teacher did their due diligence as a School. In Emily's case. Emily being more of the shy one, soft spoken, and knowing what is class room acceptable and not, is now into her 2nd year of school, having NOT ONE incident. NOT ONE! Runs around outside, 2 times a day (two recesses, how lucky)has gym class, and "free play" in class, sits on the concrete floor, pumps into things often (shes my kid lol, plus her class is super tight.) And has never come home with bruises, cuts or what have yous.Her Class Has about 23+ Students and ONE TEACHER! again NO HELP~ Again, Emily's school doesn't have the best ratings on the Island for DOE. BUT, Her teacher, Mrs Rapoza is SO SUPER! I do not remember in the first grade learning about History,sociology, Or the human body. Emily totally knows what white blood cells are used for, what Antibodies are and how to properly take care of skin. ITS FREAKING AWESOME!!!!!! She knows so much! Its scary.
HSDB, Sophie's current school. Is definitely trying. Its had some spotted past for some students and is going through a growing period right now. New People in place trying to make the system better and working as it should. I'm too much of a worrier to have my kid in a place thats transitional and not steady on its own rules and ideas. Though, Sophie's teacher has a great Educational background. SHE KNOWS HER STUFF! and Shes a good teacher. When in class. Shes also a very busy lady. I do however think that shes not exactly equiped for this age group maybe. theres 9 students and like 3 aides along with Teacher,so how do all these accidents happen, thats 2 students per one adult... and When I went through Sophie's paperwork, the daily reports that get sent home, there are 9 bad incidents that involve another Student harming Sophie. Now on purpose? Or not? Not sure. Stories don't always add up. And THANKFULLY, in great appreciation, to her current teacher, Sophie is now able to tell me what happened to her and who did it. Not so much the WHY, part yet. But we will get there. Now I said 9 incidents involving Sophie getting hurt by another student...that does not include the few "accidents" that happened the first month of school before the started to send home the accident report. And that does not include the reports about her falling by her own account. (again My kid, We are a clumsy family apparently lol) Mind you, School hasn't even been in session 3 months yet. Doesn't that sound a bit much!??
I get that This is a deaf school, I get that the deaf kids can be more handsy and rough, and pivot their anger in a not so nice manner. BUT COME ON NOW! I can't tell if its poor student inter action or if its aides Not watching. Or The lack of Correction. Feeling like for a short time the daily lessons should not be about "hungry Caterpillars" or "the 3 little pigs" but should be about How to treat friends, and class mates, respect to adults, and listening to parents. They are 4 and 5, and old enough to get those lessons. I do my best at home, with the 3 kids. From the emails from Sophie's teacher, to my understanding, Sophie isn't being aggressive to them. Shes merely "annoying". Shes in their face and curious about What they are doing and why. She Sees a friend reading a book, and goes to see what book, and maybe read too...and that student doesn't want her there, but Phi wont leave...so that student then acts aggressively. OR The last one was Because Sophie was in the way, of another student viewing the pie baking in the oven, and shoved her. Shoved aside is one thing. But damn this student must of had some real gumption Behind the push because it caused Sophie to slam her face into the counter and bleed for what the office told me was 20 minutes, WITH an ice pack on her nose.
Now let me step back and explain. Sophie is a brut herself (at home) She and Ryan can't sit still, want to always play fight, and wrestle. And When Mad...they both go at it, LIKE SIBLINGS! With exception to the scratching (yes they scratch each other, tho I try and keep their nails short...Don't worry they get punished for scratching)There is never a mark inflicted on eachother by each other. In fact, An example to use, is over the weekend, they were NOT LISTENING TO ME, and were bouncing toward each other on the sofa, where one then would bend and the other would flip over their back. Laughing having fun, but again NOT LISTENING TO ME, about stopping before someone gets hurt. And Someone did, Phi! Ryan's hard head (like his daddy's)Cracked into her where her cheek bone meets the chin. I heard a CRACK, like when you hear the football helmets slam into each other on a tackle. Ryan bent down to get in position but at last minute decided tojust body check her instead. (OHHHHH BOYS!!!!!!!!) I freaked out by the sound, break them apart and Shes crying and "yelling" at Ryan. Her face, looks a little swollen, but no cut, no bruise (yet) nothing more then a little raised. Not even pink oddly. So I watch it the rest of the evening, and into Sunday...What do I see? NOTHING! no mark. Again I say it was a hard hit and the cracking sound when I think about it, still makes me cringe. So You readers tell me...How can she keep coming home with all these cuts and bruises from school, that Im being told comes from a student? But it not happen when I see it with my own eyes at home? How does that even work?
Is it by the hand of students? Is it by someone else?
I don't think Sophie is at the age where she can even get the magnitude of the situation.
Lately, shes not been wanting to go to school. Lately shes coming home in crap moods.
Im wanting to switch her school and Hawaii Department of Education (DOE) has proven to be battle! The professionals I need to speak with Wont even call me back. The School I want to visit, wont let me meet and speak with teacher and visit his class to see his interaction with the deaf students. I just want to see it, see his ASL with the students and how he runs his class.
I tell Ya, We were so excited to come here to Hawaii.
Excited to have a special school for Phi
Excited to be involved in Deaf community of Hawaii
Excited to be on this island and have another adventure.
And While we have loved seeing what we have, Love the esthetics of the Island, the people of Hawaii, the views, the beach...Its not the paradise We had hoped it to be.
Its making me feel regretful to have come here.
Its also left a bad taste in my mouth about deaf schools. Something Grams did warn me about.
Its put a real damper on my Love for Island life...Which leaves me to say the most disgusting thing Ever...WE SHOULD HAVE STAYED IN WASHINGTON!
But Like the Husband says
"You don't know how good you had it, until you don't have it anymore" He usually says the same thing, in multiple different ways ;) Love you hunnnnny!
Sunday, April 7, 2013
To Be or Not to Be? Whats the real question HEAR!?
Ignorance Is Truly Bliss!
Have You ever Gone to see A doctor and Wonder after the appointment...If they really can relate? Or Understand? have been there done that? With Exception to oncologists, cardiologist, And ophthalmologist...Who Ultimately Do wear Glasses and/or Contacts eventually...
I have...
Lets Take GYN's and OB's for example that are men!
Ever Wonder if they went into the profession so they can sit in front of a womans VAG all day!?
And then think, "well hey dude, How can I trust you REALLY understand when you have a penis?"
Seriously What young 20yr old MALE goes into med School thinking, OH Im picking this field because I know I can truly make A difference in the lower region of Womens lives, And I'll Extend it to Obstetrics Because I can relate to A pregnant Women and their Child......I THINK NOT PEOPLE!
Not to mention the fact its the most, intimate Medical Profession.
Whats my point?
My Point is, that I wonder if these, Audiologists, Speech Pathologists, ENT Doctors and Otolarynologist, Have spent MORE then a few days with Someone whos hard of hearing or Profoundly deaf? Wonder If They had, If they would have the Same conclusions they have now...
I feel like its important to get on a more personal level to be able to relate to families and patients To see A broader Spectrum of Possibilities.Especially since, Really they do not care what your story is for being in their office. They want medical facts, and Want to know you desire medically for the future. MOST Of what they say, Comes with a cold Front, and Simply "scientific" replies, as to WHY this is important...and why this is necessary, and What will happen in the future. LIKE THEY KNOW FOR SURE~
Professionals are always quick to Boast about their success rate, successful patients and stories TO WARM the heart. I understand its to give Hope...But then Ask them about When It didnt go so successfully, Like with Sophie, And their demeanor and Tone Changes. Its no longer with a smile, or happy Chuckle in their story. Their Eyes aren't bright when Speaking About cases where The Child just wants NOTHING to do with wearing this machine...
Side note...
Isn't it the case with Most places...In reference to Doctors offices, that the Nurses are the key players in EVERYTHING. Doctors are in and out, quick, usually cold...I feel like Maybe The smart way to become a doctor Should have meant that its a prerequisites to Be a Nurse first, Then BE MD...Whatever you like to be Called.
Obviously I KNOW WE CAN NOT ALL EXPERIENCE the same way. Lives aren't long enough to live through every possible scenario. Im Not an idiot!
Im just saying it would be nice to relate more, and get less text book answers.
Im reminded That Sophia, Is one of the "rare" cases. In which Youth at a super young age, have already made up their own mind, their avenue of Communication. Being told that While its Not The "normal" (theres that word again) But that it does Sometimes happen. Making it that much harder to try and sway them in any other direction.
I understand that for those who have experienced Hearing loss, Or my New favorite Term thanks to "switched at birth" ..deaf gain...Are super sad, scared, scrambling for a fix it,and fix it now, route. That it would be defeating almost to have to struggle to hear, what you could always hear before.
However, I can also understand that Its a different way of life for those who's earliest memories come from silence. Where nothing BUT SOUND is new, and frightening and weird.
The Cochlear implant is a fantastic device, yes! Successfully helping those who are hard of hearing to Function Easier in this Dominate hearing World. A recipient, Knows they are still and forever will be deaf, But as Ive heard from friends, family and strangers, They see it as a way to NO LONGER BE DEAF. While thats a very false Statement, In a way, I guess it helps these hearing folk, be more ACCEPTING! They no longer see that person as deaf, and welcome them...(that sounds so bad, but its the truth, people have said that, and done that...funny huh?...)
Acceptance is a tricky thing, its not really our human nature (for most of us anyway) Something that Has to be taught, and at that Taught when Young so it sticks...Which goes along with Our family being told that scientifically, Sophie must learn speech before a certain age or it all turns to "garbage"..Their WORD USED, not my Word.
Acceptance Is something I CHOOSE to use, instead of the word Tolerance. Tolerance implies that Deep down you are still uneasy about something, but you just go with it. Acceptance is SOUL DEEP. And WHY tolerance is something WE DO NOT TEACH ABOUT IN THIS HOUSE. Our Children are being caught the importance of accepting Everyone, Culture, looks, "difference", Challenge, daily life adventures.
We feel its important to nurture Sophia's Desire to just be a kid. Her choices are just as important. Her Lifes path should be her own. AS Should All our childrens. We are not sad that Sophie is deaf. We are not sad she doesnt use her voice to speak words to us. We Communicate amazingly. This week I was informed how impressive my ASL has gotten, that its Fantastic to see that Sophie has picked it up So well. Does what every other 4 year old does, Some better, And has A bright future (duh). If speech is the only thing impacted When Sophie is an adult, then The Good Lord knows, Matt and I did A damn good job. If Speech is the only thing people want to HOLD against her...Then We will teach her that most people are ignorant, and that Shes strong enough to with stand, and maybe make that person whistle a different tune, after they meet.
When Sophie was first "diagnosed"...though Again not a term I love.
We were asked, well...How will she learn?
Will she learn her ABC's and count?
Be able to follow directions?
How do you teach someone who doesnt hear?
What kind of future can she have without sound?
My answer to all?
American Sign Language.
Its a real language you know?
Now almost 3 years later. Sophie can...
Dress herself, follow 3 step directions, Writes out "mom, dad, Emily, Ryan, Sophia" when We ask her too. Writes her letters, Knows numbers 1-10...How many 4 year olds do you know, that not only can recognize Letters in print, in sign, and then be able to write them out? Or In sign alone in Sophie case when we practice our daily writing skills. SHES A SPONGE, rather speaking or not. Because ASL is An actual structural language, To which We are taught things with. Has meaning, and just as A hearing child learns....A Deaf Child Learns through ASL.The brain receptively ACCEPTS the sign and remembers it for its meaning. People want to call it visual Cues...FINE call it what you will. But Do we not do MOST EVERYTHING with our eyes. We Are able to Live and be successful even without the sense of Sound. Did you know, that in the Canine World, hearing is the last thing to Develop? In fact All dogs are only born with one functioning sense, The sense of Smell. Personally, If I lost my sense of smell....that would be more horrible then the sense of hearing. bahaha
To Be Deaf, hearing, have Hearing Loss, or deaf Gain. If you are still learning and growing and using the gift God has Given you. Whats the Problem?
Nothing is easy. Whether you are a Deaf, blind, paralyzed or Green plant loving hippy. Some people have it harder then others. True. But All in all, life isn't a cake walk no matter who you are, or where you are lacking. Life is how we make it out to be. Happiness SOLELY depends on us and us alone. When we let the outside World torment us, break us down, hold us back, knock us down...That's when its time to pick OURSELVES back up, re-evaluate, and find our own happiness. Letting the hate, fall to the way side, find your own community and keep them Close to heart. Prayer. And the push, for joy, no matter what fault we own.
To Be Or Not to Be?
Exactly who you are supposed to be
Have You ever Gone to see A doctor and Wonder after the appointment...If they really can relate? Or Understand? have been there done that? With Exception to oncologists, cardiologist, And ophthalmologist...Who Ultimately Do wear Glasses and/or Contacts eventually...
I have...
Lets Take GYN's and OB's for example that are men!
Ever Wonder if they went into the profession so they can sit in front of a womans VAG all day!?
And then think, "well hey dude, How can I trust you REALLY understand when you have a penis?"
Seriously What young 20yr old MALE goes into med School thinking, OH Im picking this field because I know I can truly make A difference in the lower region of Womens lives, And I'll Extend it to Obstetrics Because I can relate to A pregnant Women and their Child......I THINK NOT PEOPLE!
Not to mention the fact its the most, intimate Medical Profession.
Whats my point?
My Point is, that I wonder if these, Audiologists, Speech Pathologists, ENT Doctors and Otolarynologist, Have spent MORE then a few days with Someone whos hard of hearing or Profoundly deaf? Wonder If They had, If they would have the Same conclusions they have now...
I feel like its important to get on a more personal level to be able to relate to families and patients To see A broader Spectrum of Possibilities.Especially since, Really they do not care what your story is for being in their office. They want medical facts, and Want to know you desire medically for the future. MOST Of what they say, Comes with a cold Front, and Simply "scientific" replies, as to WHY this is important...and why this is necessary, and What will happen in the future. LIKE THEY KNOW FOR SURE~
Professionals are always quick to Boast about their success rate, successful patients and stories TO WARM the heart. I understand its to give Hope...But then Ask them about When It didnt go so successfully, Like with Sophie, And their demeanor and Tone Changes. Its no longer with a smile, or happy Chuckle in their story. Their Eyes aren't bright when Speaking About cases where The Child just wants NOTHING to do with wearing this machine...
Side note...
Isn't it the case with Most places...In reference to Doctors offices, that the Nurses are the key players in EVERYTHING. Doctors are in and out, quick, usually cold...I feel like Maybe The smart way to become a doctor Should have meant that its a prerequisites to Be a Nurse first, Then BE MD...Whatever you like to be Called.
Obviously I KNOW WE CAN NOT ALL EXPERIENCE the same way. Lives aren't long enough to live through every possible scenario. Im Not an idiot!
Im just saying it would be nice to relate more, and get less text book answers.
Im reminded That Sophia, Is one of the "rare" cases. In which Youth at a super young age, have already made up their own mind, their avenue of Communication. Being told that While its Not The "normal" (theres that word again) But that it does Sometimes happen. Making it that much harder to try and sway them in any other direction.
I understand that for those who have experienced Hearing loss, Or my New favorite Term thanks to "switched at birth" ..deaf gain...Are super sad, scared, scrambling for a fix it,and fix it now, route. That it would be defeating almost to have to struggle to hear, what you could always hear before.
However, I can also understand that Its a different way of life for those who's earliest memories come from silence. Where nothing BUT SOUND is new, and frightening and weird.
The Cochlear implant is a fantastic device, yes! Successfully helping those who are hard of hearing to Function Easier in this Dominate hearing World. A recipient, Knows they are still and forever will be deaf, But as Ive heard from friends, family and strangers, They see it as a way to NO LONGER BE DEAF. While thats a very false Statement, In a way, I guess it helps these hearing folk, be more ACCEPTING! They no longer see that person as deaf, and welcome them...(that sounds so bad, but its the truth, people have said that, and done that...funny huh?...)
Acceptance is a tricky thing, its not really our human nature (for most of us anyway) Something that Has to be taught, and at that Taught when Young so it sticks...Which goes along with Our family being told that scientifically, Sophie must learn speech before a certain age or it all turns to "garbage"..Their WORD USED, not my Word.
Acceptance Is something I CHOOSE to use, instead of the word Tolerance. Tolerance implies that Deep down you are still uneasy about something, but you just go with it. Acceptance is SOUL DEEP. And WHY tolerance is something WE DO NOT TEACH ABOUT IN THIS HOUSE. Our Children are being caught the importance of accepting Everyone, Culture, looks, "difference", Challenge, daily life adventures.
We feel its important to nurture Sophia's Desire to just be a kid. Her choices are just as important. Her Lifes path should be her own. AS Should All our childrens. We are not sad that Sophie is deaf. We are not sad she doesnt use her voice to speak words to us. We Communicate amazingly. This week I was informed how impressive my ASL has gotten, that its Fantastic to see that Sophie has picked it up So well. Does what every other 4 year old does, Some better, And has A bright future (duh). If speech is the only thing impacted When Sophie is an adult, then The Good Lord knows, Matt and I did A damn good job. If Speech is the only thing people want to HOLD against her...Then We will teach her that most people are ignorant, and that Shes strong enough to with stand, and maybe make that person whistle a different tune, after they meet.
When Sophie was first "diagnosed"...though Again not a term I love.
We were asked, well...How will she learn?
Will she learn her ABC's and count?
Be able to follow directions?
How do you teach someone who doesnt hear?
What kind of future can she have without sound?
My answer to all?
American Sign Language.
Its a real language you know?
Now almost 3 years later. Sophie can...
Dress herself, follow 3 step directions, Writes out "mom, dad, Emily, Ryan, Sophia" when We ask her too. Writes her letters, Knows numbers 1-10...How many 4 year olds do you know, that not only can recognize Letters in print, in sign, and then be able to write them out? Or In sign alone in Sophie case when we practice our daily writing skills. SHES A SPONGE, rather speaking or not. Because ASL is An actual structural language, To which We are taught things with. Has meaning, and just as A hearing child learns....A Deaf Child Learns through ASL.The brain receptively ACCEPTS the sign and remembers it for its meaning. People want to call it visual Cues...FINE call it what you will. But Do we not do MOST EVERYTHING with our eyes. We Are able to Live and be successful even without the sense of Sound. Did you know, that in the Canine World, hearing is the last thing to Develop? In fact All dogs are only born with one functioning sense, The sense of Smell. Personally, If I lost my sense of smell....that would be more horrible then the sense of hearing. bahaha
To Be Deaf, hearing, have Hearing Loss, or deaf Gain. If you are still learning and growing and using the gift God has Given you. Whats the Problem?
Nothing is easy. Whether you are a Deaf, blind, paralyzed or Green plant loving hippy. Some people have it harder then others. True. But All in all, life isn't a cake walk no matter who you are, or where you are lacking. Life is how we make it out to be. Happiness SOLELY depends on us and us alone. When we let the outside World torment us, break us down, hold us back, knock us down...That's when its time to pick OURSELVES back up, re-evaluate, and find our own happiness. Letting the hate, fall to the way side, find your own community and keep them Close to heart. Prayer. And the push, for joy, no matter what fault we own.
To Be Or Not to Be?
Exactly who you are supposed to be
Monday, December 5, 2011
A day in the life of a deaf Arizonian
facts.
neckwear is Bola Tie
State Gem is Turquoise
state tree is Palo Verde
state bird is the Cactus Wren
state Flower is Blossom of the Saguaro cactus
state mammal is the Ring tail
State Fish is the Apache Trout
State reptile is the ridge nosed Rattle snake.
census rang in at over 6 million residents
State capital if you havent already guess is Phoenix.
Yes Im listing facts about Arizona.
Why? Ill get to the WHY! Soon. Though you've guess it already most likely as I have already stated this in previous blogs.
Arizona observes Mountain Standard Time on a year round basis. The one exception is the Navajo Nation, located in the northeast corner of the state, which observes the daylight savings time change.
The Castilian and Burgundian flags of Spain, the Mexican flag, the Confederate flag, and the flag of the United States have all flown over the land area that has become Arizona.
The geographic center of Arizona is 55 miles (89 kilometers) southeast of Prescott.
Arizona's most abundant mineral is copper.
Bisbee, located in Tombstone Canyon, is known as the Queen of the Copper Mines. During its mining history the town was the largest city between Saint Louis and San Francisco.
The state's most popular natural wonders include the Grand Canyon, Havasu Canyon, Grand Canyon Caves, Lake Powell/Rainbow Bridge, Petrified Forest/Painted Desert, Monument Valley, Sunset Crater, Meteor Crater, Sedona Oak Creek Canyon, Salt River Canyon, Superstition Mountains, Picacho Peak State Park, Saguaro National Park, Chiricahua National Monument, and the Colorado River.
The Arizona tree frog is the state official amphibian. The frog is actually between three-quarter to two inches long.
The original London Bridge was shipped stone-by-stone and reconstructed in Lake Havasu City.
The capital of the Navajo Reservation is Window Rock.
The state's precipitation varies. At Flagstaff the annual average is 18.31 inches; Phoenix averages 7.64 inches; and Yuma's annual average is 3.27 inches.
Crops include 2%; pastureland 57%; forests 24%; and other uses are 17% in land-use designation.
The Arizona ridge-nosed rattlesnake is perhaps the most beautiful of all eleven species of rattlesnakes found in Arizona.
The colors blue and gold are the official state colors.
Located in Fountain Hills is a fountain believed to be the tallest in the world.
Four Corners is noted as the spot in the United States where a person can stand in four states at the same time.
The age of a saguaro cactus is determined by its height.
The Apache trout is considered a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act.
Arizona, among all the states, has the largest percentage of its land set aside and designated as Indian lands.
Rising to a height of 12,643 feet, Mount Humphreys north of Flagstaff is the state's highest mountain.
The Hopi Indians of Arizona are noted for growing their multicolored corn.
Oraibi is the oldest Indian settlement in the United States. The Hopis Indians founded it.
Grand Canyon's Flaming Gorge got its name for its blazing red and orange colored, twelve-hundred-foot-high walls.
Grand Canyon's Disaster Falls was named to commemorate the site of a previous explorer's wreck.
Grand Canyon's Marble Canyon got its name from its thousand-foot-thick seam of marble and for its walls eroded to a polished glass finish.
Arizona became the 48th state on February 14, 1912.
The world's largest solar telescope is located at Kitts Peak National Observatory in the city of Sells.
At one time camels were used to transport goods across Arizona.
A person from Arizona is called an Arizonan.
Phoenix originated in 1866 as a hay camp to supply Camp McDowell.
Tombstone, Ruby, Gillette, and Gunsight are among the ghost towns scattered throughout the state.
(Thanks to Arizona Fast facts Website)
DO not really find all that information interesting?
I do!
How bout this quote?
“The problem is not that the (deaf) students do not hear. The problem is that the hearing world does not listen. “- Rev Jesse L. Jackson ( American Civil Rights Activist, Minister)
Which is where Im off to next. Arizona Deaf
Funny how, next to NYC Arizona phoenix and Tuscon metro areas seem to offer and abundance of deaf support. The Arizona State School for the Deaf and Blind is even Host to the berger performing arts center on their Campus!!!! PERFORMING ARTS! YES!~
Phoenix Day school runs its program for Pre-K to High school. Running Pre-k programs in 5 local area around the Metro area for youngest students to have better access closer to home. Total communication ASL, spoken and written English, sports and even culinary classes!!! Allowing the parents and students to decide the method they are most comfortable learning in. Not to mention SMALL classes and a total student body no bigger thenthe private school I attended basically my whole life.
Sequoia School for the deaf, is one of 5 charter schools located on the same Campus. Allowing the Deaf students to be in classes and among its diverse student body at all times. Mixing Classes for the hearing impaired and hearing, allowing that student to make the choice. Some hearing classes from H.H classes. Even FREE...YES FREE College courses can be taken for High school students to get a head in their college career while still in school. Free transportation and free parent and RELATIVE sign language classes. OH and did I mention A DEAF PRINCIPLE, who studied in Deaf Education. Located in Mesa, AZ and pretty easy access from the surrounding areas. How awesome it would be to give Sophie the education she will need while not taking away from Emily and Ryan. While also allowing the 3 of them to be ALL on the same CAMPUS, enjoying school together, bus together maybe even.
Hello Arizona Deaf Festival~ FESTIVAL of arts,skits, childrens programs,
EVEN MISS DEAF ARIZONA PAGEANT! WHHHHHHHAT!!!!!!
http://www.missdeafaz.com/
MMMMHMMMM funny enough Miss Deaf Arizona 2011 WINNERS name just happens to Be SOPHIA.....ummmmm so whats that Country comedians line...Oh yea "theres your sign" bahahahahahahaha
Arizona Deaf theatre
In the
Disability Empowerment building, Phoenix Arizona!
Phoenix Deaf Community Center
Valley of the Sun signers, at Meetup.com
and from what I see like 10 different meetup groups revolving around sign/deaf/hear of hearing/adults/children/families.
Oh my gosh, Im jeolous a little seeing how this kind of support group setting is exactly what Ive been looking for here~
I cant believe all that I have found this morning in Arizona. It makes me raise hope tho that one day we will get down there and make it. Afford it, work it, become true Arizonians. buy our first home~
Amazing stuff. Amazing Facts about the land of Burning Sand. A place we once lived. A busy metro snow birding kind of area. But deep down, I have a feeling that with all this accessible to not just Sophie, but Emily and Ryan as well. This is a place we need to take into consideration. As I recall Arizonians are also A lot sweeter.Maybe its all that sunshine. Maybe its the extra Vitamin D. I dont know. But I do know that in my heart Finding a place where School is excellent for all my kids is key to their lives being successful. Even if I do not see all my dreams come true. The least I can do, is pave a path that my kids can accomplish it all. Providing the means for proper education and teaching them compassion and love and honor being the stepping stones!
neckwear is Bola Tie
State Gem is Turquoise
state tree is Palo Verde
state bird is the Cactus Wren
state Flower is Blossom of the Saguaro cactus
state mammal is the Ring tail
State Fish is the Apache Trout
State reptile is the ridge nosed Rattle snake.
census rang in at over 6 million residents
State capital if you havent already guess is Phoenix.
Yes Im listing facts about Arizona.
Why? Ill get to the WHY! Soon. Though you've guess it already most likely as I have already stated this in previous blogs.
Arizona observes Mountain Standard Time on a year round basis. The one exception is the Navajo Nation, located in the northeast corner of the state, which observes the daylight savings time change.
The Castilian and Burgundian flags of Spain, the Mexican flag, the Confederate flag, and the flag of the United States have all flown over the land area that has become Arizona.
The geographic center of Arizona is 55 miles (89 kilometers) southeast of Prescott.
Arizona's most abundant mineral is copper.
Bisbee, located in Tombstone Canyon, is known as the Queen of the Copper Mines. During its mining history the town was the largest city between Saint Louis and San Francisco.
The state's most popular natural wonders include the Grand Canyon, Havasu Canyon, Grand Canyon Caves, Lake Powell/Rainbow Bridge, Petrified Forest/Painted Desert, Monument Valley, Sunset Crater, Meteor Crater, Sedona Oak Creek Canyon, Salt River Canyon, Superstition Mountains, Picacho Peak State Park, Saguaro National Park, Chiricahua National Monument, and the Colorado River.
The Arizona tree frog is the state official amphibian. The frog is actually between three-quarter to two inches long.
The original London Bridge was shipped stone-by-stone and reconstructed in Lake Havasu City.
The capital of the Navajo Reservation is Window Rock.
The state's precipitation varies. At Flagstaff the annual average is 18.31 inches; Phoenix averages 7.64 inches; and Yuma's annual average is 3.27 inches.
Crops include 2%; pastureland 57%; forests 24%; and other uses are 17% in land-use designation.
The Arizona ridge-nosed rattlesnake is perhaps the most beautiful of all eleven species of rattlesnakes found in Arizona.
The colors blue and gold are the official state colors.
Located in Fountain Hills is a fountain believed to be the tallest in the world.
Four Corners is noted as the spot in the United States where a person can stand in four states at the same time.
The age of a saguaro cactus is determined by its height.
The Apache trout is considered a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act.
Arizona, among all the states, has the largest percentage of its land set aside and designated as Indian lands.
Rising to a height of 12,643 feet, Mount Humphreys north of Flagstaff is the state's highest mountain.
The Hopi Indians of Arizona are noted for growing their multicolored corn.
Oraibi is the oldest Indian settlement in the United States. The Hopis Indians founded it.
Grand Canyon's Flaming Gorge got its name for its blazing red and orange colored, twelve-hundred-foot-high walls.
Grand Canyon's Disaster Falls was named to commemorate the site of a previous explorer's wreck.
Grand Canyon's Marble Canyon got its name from its thousand-foot-thick seam of marble and for its walls eroded to a polished glass finish.
Arizona became the 48th state on February 14, 1912.
The world's largest solar telescope is located at Kitts Peak National Observatory in the city of Sells.
At one time camels were used to transport goods across Arizona.
A person from Arizona is called an Arizonan.
Phoenix originated in 1866 as a hay camp to supply Camp McDowell.
Tombstone, Ruby, Gillette, and Gunsight are among the ghost towns scattered throughout the state.
(Thanks to Arizona Fast facts Website)
DO not really find all that information interesting?
I do!
How bout this quote?
“The problem is not that the (deaf) students do not hear. The problem is that the hearing world does not listen. “- Rev Jesse L. Jackson ( American Civil Rights Activist, Minister)
Which is where Im off to next. Arizona Deaf
Funny how, next to NYC Arizona phoenix and Tuscon metro areas seem to offer and abundance of deaf support. The Arizona State School for the Deaf and Blind is even Host to the berger performing arts center on their Campus!!!! PERFORMING ARTS! YES!~
Phoenix Day school runs its program for Pre-K to High school. Running Pre-k programs in 5 local area around the Metro area for youngest students to have better access closer to home. Total communication ASL, spoken and written English, sports and even culinary classes!!! Allowing the parents and students to decide the method they are most comfortable learning in. Not to mention SMALL classes and a total student body no bigger thenthe private school I attended basically my whole life.
Sequoia School for the deaf, is one of 5 charter schools located on the same Campus. Allowing the Deaf students to be in classes and among its diverse student body at all times. Mixing Classes for the hearing impaired and hearing, allowing that student to make the choice. Some hearing classes from H.H classes. Even FREE...YES FREE College courses can be taken for High school students to get a head in their college career while still in school. Free transportation and free parent and RELATIVE sign language classes. OH and did I mention A DEAF PRINCIPLE, who studied in Deaf Education. Located in Mesa, AZ and pretty easy access from the surrounding areas. How awesome it would be to give Sophie the education she will need while not taking away from Emily and Ryan. While also allowing the 3 of them to be ALL on the same CAMPUS, enjoying school together, bus together maybe even.
Hello Arizona Deaf Festival~ FESTIVAL of arts,skits, childrens programs,
EVEN MISS DEAF ARIZONA PAGEANT! WHHHHHHHAT!!!!!!
http://www.missdeafaz.com/
MMMMHMMMM funny enough Miss Deaf Arizona 2011 WINNERS name just happens to Be SOPHIA.....ummmmm so whats that Country comedians line...Oh yea "theres your sign" bahahahahahahaha
Arizona Deaf theatre
In the
Disability Empowerment building, Phoenix Arizona!
Phoenix Deaf Community Center
Valley of the Sun signers, at Meetup.com
and from what I see like 10 different meetup groups revolving around sign/deaf/hear of hearing/adults/children/families.
Oh my gosh, Im jeolous a little seeing how this kind of support group setting is exactly what Ive been looking for here~
I cant believe all that I have found this morning in Arizona. It makes me raise hope tho that one day we will get down there and make it. Afford it, work it, become true Arizonians. buy our first home~
Amazing stuff. Amazing Facts about the land of Burning Sand. A place we once lived. A busy metro snow birding kind of area. But deep down, I have a feeling that with all this accessible to not just Sophie, but Emily and Ryan as well. This is a place we need to take into consideration. As I recall Arizonians are also A lot sweeter.Maybe its all that sunshine. Maybe its the extra Vitamin D. I dont know. But I do know that in my heart Finding a place where School is excellent for all my kids is key to their lives being successful. Even if I do not see all my dreams come true. The least I can do, is pave a path that my kids can accomplish it all. Providing the means for proper education and teaching them compassion and love and honor being the stepping stones!
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