For years, American Sign Language was taught exclusively as an online course until 2024 when it first became offered as an in person course, taught by Misa Suzuki. Over a year and a half, Suzuki has established herself as a valuable member of the ACHS community and connected with students through ASL, however, her time has been tragically cut short due to an inability to acquire a new work visa.

Born in Japan, Suzuki moved to the United States in 2020, and majored in sign language education and linguistics at Gallaudet University. She began teaching American Sign Language at ACHS in 2024.

Since joining the ACHS community, Suzuki has created an engaging environment for one of the smaller language communities at the King Street campus. Her classes encourage a deep respect for Deaf culture and communication accessibility for her students.

“As a deaf person myself, I strive to engage with them as equals,” said Suzuki. “That’s why I stand in the ASL classroom not as a teacher, but as one person among others.”

Despite a communication barrier, students quickly connected to Suzuki’s style of teaching and her classroom has become a comfortable, supportive space.

“I remember being nervous the first time I met her, thinking the communication barrier was going to be tough to get past, but she made it very easy and smooth and was always patient,” said senior Olivia Chappel. “She made me comfortable with making mistakes in ASL.”

She approaches language learning uniquely, even with the design of her classroom, which features desks arranged in the shape of a U. This allows students to always face each other, which is important when using your hands but also supports the welcoming feeling of her classroom.

“Her class has given me many opportunities to explore Deaf culture, as well as giving me another way to communicate when I go silent,” said junior Hattie Lawver.

Recently, however, students and staff were met with the difficult news that Suzuki will be leaving her position over winter break. As a Japanese citizen, Suzuki requires a work visa to teach at ACHS and public high schools do not have the authority to sponsor them.

“Under the Trump administration’s policies, the options for obtaining this work visa are extremely limited,” said Suzuki. “It is hard to accept, but I will treasure my two years of work experience and strive to do my best in Japan.” Suzuki plans to work as a research assistant at the University of Tokyo in Japan.

In contrast to Suzuki’s accepting reaction, her students are devastated to see her go.

“The way she has to leave is unfair and should be on her terms,” said senior Olivia Chappell. “I wish that we could’ve had more time to learn more about her and I wish I could have her here for the last couple months of my senior year.”

Even though her two years at ACHS have been cut short, her impact on the school community has been unmistakable.

“[We are losing] a very kind and passionate teacher who genuinely wants to show and educate about something she’s proud of,” said Chappell.

When asked what she thinks the ASL class will be like after she leaves, Suzuki expressed optimism about the transition. “We found a new Deaf teacher so he will bring his style of teaching to this ASL class. I hope it will make students motivated to learn more!”

Looking forward, Suzuki hopes her lessons will stay with her students long after she leaves. “I hope students learn about Deaf culture and its value, not just learning ASL itself. It helps them to think about what is human. Deaf is also human, so if they think about ASL through Deaf, I will be happy.”