Members of Sunlake High School's American Sign Language Club interpret at home athletic events and plan to sign books for students at the local library this school year.

The ASL Club is one of several after-school organizations at the Land O' Lakes school, but its reach extends beyond campus. The Perch, Sunlake's student newspaper, profiled the club Thursday, Sept. 10, detailing how members use sign language at games, community events and volunteer outings.

Member Says Club Offers Judgment-Free Space

Junior Joslyn Rodriguez joined the club after a teacher encouraged her to pursue her interest in the language. She told The Perch the experience changed how she connects with classmates.

"ASL helped me connect with other students in the school community by giving us a place to learn without feeling judged and has shown how much you can do without your voice," Rodriguez said.

Club Aims To Raise Awareness of Deaf Culture

Beyond game-day interpreting, the club participates in Sunlake's trick-or-treat around the track event, where members sign alongside other student groups. Rodriguez said one of the club's goals for the 2026-27 year is to "spread more awareness about the Deaf world and help get rid of the stigma about Deaf individuals."

The National Deaf Center estimates roughly 11 million people in the United States identify as Deaf or have serious difficulty hearing.

Rodriguez said misconceptions about the Deaf community are something the club works to address head-on. She and other members want people to know that Deaf individuals "are just as capable of doing anything a hearing person can do and more."

Club Welcomes Members With No ASL Experience

The club meets the second Wednesday of each month after school at Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd. Students interested in joining do not need prior ASL experience.

Rodriguez had a message for anyone on the fence. She said learning ASL teaches members not only about Deaf culture but also about themselves, calling it "the best decision."

Upcoming Community Events

Land O' Lakes hosts its Moonlight Market and author fair Friday, Sept. 11, through Saturday, Sept. 12.