Frequently Asked QuestionsBelow are the most common questions asked about this class.
If you still have questions after reading below, feel free to
email the teacher at miamiinterpreter@gmail.com
Who teaches the class?
The class is taught by Enrique D. Pereira, a nationally certified sign language interpreter with over
20 years of experience interpreting and working in the Deaf community. He can be reached via email at miamiinterpreter@gmail.com
Where are the classes held?
When are classes held?
Do these classes offer any college credit, certificates,
or credentials?
No. These classes are not affiliated with any college and university. They are sponsored by Forward Fellowship Church and offered free to anyone in the community who is interested in learning sign language. The teacher of the class is a college professor as well and all the material presented in class are the same materials used and taught in college classes.
Are classes offered anywhere else other than Forward Fellowship Church in Hialeah?
No.
Currently classes are only offered in person at Forward Fellowship Church.Are the classes available to stream or watch remotely online?
No.
However, the classes have been pre-recorded and available for free as well on ASLninja.com. All the videos available on ASLninja.com is the same content taught in class. Students use these videos to review what is taught in class.Are classes ever cancelled?
Yes. If there is a holiday or unforseen emergency, the professor may cancel the class. Any cancellations will be posted on the class website and students will also be sent a text message about the cancellation.
How much does the class cost?
NOTHING! The class is 100% FREE for anyone who would like to come learn.
Is a mask required to be worn?
No. Forward Fellowship Church follows the policies and guidelines provided by the CDC which currently has no federal mask mandates in place. Anyone is welcome to wear a mask if they wish. The classes are held in a large room with individual chairs which also allows anyone to social distance if they wish to by placing their chair where they feel comfortable.
Is this a
class for beginners?
Yes, you do not need any previous experience or knowledge of sign language to come. The class begins with the very basics and more! There are also advance classes offered, please email the professor at miamiinterpreter@gmail.com if you are interested in an advanced ASL class.
How can I stay informed with the latest about the class?
Join our class text message group, it's easy and free. You will only receive messages sent my the teacher regarding the class. To join, simply send the message @ffasl-1 to the number 81010 and you will automatically be added to the teacher's text message list. You should receive an automatic reply letting you know you have joined the class text message group. Any announcements regarding the class, Deaf events, and related information will be automatically sent to you through text message! For more details, see out contact info page above.
Is there an advance sign language class available?
Yes. There is another sign language class taught at a different time for students who have a background in sign language or have taken basic sign language in the past and would like to increase their skills to a higher level. Please email the professor at miamiinterpreter@gmail.com if you are interested in an advanced ASL class.
What is taught in this class?
American Sign Language, not only signs but all aspects of the language such as grammar, syntax, and aspects of Deaf culture.
How long do the classes run?
The class begins every January and continues every Wednesday throughout the year
ending right before Christmas. For specific dates, see the
Schedule link above.
Do I need to register or sign-up?
N
o. Just show up and enjoy.How can I improve my skills in sign language?
The most important part in become fluent in American Sign Language is exposure! This involves watching and being around sign language as much as possible. Students are encouraged to not only attend class but attend Deaf social events in the community and whenever possible watch Sign Language interpreters in action. During the class, upcoming Deaf events will be announces and students will be encouraged to attend. They will be posted on the class calendar as well. To stay informed of all Deaf events in the Miami area, please follow the social media accounts of MiamiDeaf on Instagram and Facebook where announcments of upcoming Deaf social events are posted.
Where can I watch sign language interpreters?
By attending Deaf social events, students will have a chance to meet and become friends with Deaf people and sign language interpreters as well. The teacher of the class (Enrique) is also the head sign language interpreter of Forward Fellowship Church and interprets all church services in American Sign Language. Church services are Sundays from 10:30AM to 12:00PM and there is also a Bible study on Wednesday nights (after sign language class) from 8:00PM to 9:30PM which is also interpreted. These services are a great opportunity to not only watch a sign language interpreter in action but also meet and socialize with the Deaf individuals attending the services.
Is it too late for me to join?
It is never too late to start. Classes are taught live on Wednesdays but review videos are posted online to review and/or learn what you've missed. Anyone may join the classes at any point throughout the year. There are several students that learn about the class throughout the year and join the class even though they were not present since the beginning. They are able to catch up watching the videos of the recorded classes.
Can I invite others to come?
Yes! We encourage anyone who is interested in learning sign language to come.
Do I have to be a member of the church
to take this class?
No. Although several members from the church attend the class, membership to
the church is not required. The classes are open to anyone in the community who would like to learn!
Are there any other costs involved with the class?
No. You are not required to buy anything to take the class, it is 100% FREE. There are materials such as handouts and books to learn sign language which are provided for free through the class website.
Are there opportunities for me to practice with Deaf people?
Yes! The teacher will be informing the class of any Deaf events that occur
throughout the year. These events are a great opportunity to socialize with
Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals who use Sign Language.
email the professor at miamiinterpreter@gmail.com or call our church office at (305) 918-4545
