Introduction to American Sign Language (ASL)

Join deaf instructor Georgia Cline to begin or continue studying the basics of American Sign Language (ASL). Students will learn how to communicate effectively with ASL. This includes the use of basic signs, strong eye contact, and visual attention.

Our instructor will show students how to employ their eyes to relay information rather than depending upon hearing. In addition to learning the basics of ASL, students will be exposed to elements of the deaf culture and community. This includes how individuals navigate life with the communication barriers that they face. Through the study of ASL, class participants will help to break these barriers.

Students should bring a notebook or paper to take notes, and it is also recommended, but not required, that students purchase the “American Sign Language Phase Book; 3^rd Edition” by: Lou Fant and Barbara Bernstein Fant. The book is available on Amazon.

Registration Information

Class Fee:

$95 for Non-Members (includes supplies)
$89.50 for BRMAA Members (includes supplies)

Register:

Skill Level:

Beginner

Session Length & Date:

May 5^th– June 9^th, 2026

6 sessions (Tuesdays)
- 5:30 PM – 7:50 PM

Instructor Name:

Robyn Czyscon

About the Instructor

Georgia Cline

My name is Georgia, just like the state of Georgia. I was born deaf; however, it took six different doctors and two years before I was diagnosed. My parents are part of only three percent of hearing caregivers who learn ASL. They wanted to make sure that I was just as normal as I could be, and that I could flourish just as I was. They did not want me to be deprived of my language skills and fought for MY language, which is ASL. My mother was and still is a great advocate for me and has been my entire life. I graduated from the Model Secondary School for the deaf in Washington, DC in 1985 where I made the Dean’s List. I was very involved in Theatre and Art. During my senior year, Paramount Pictures chose me to have a part in the move Children of a Lesser God in 1986. I studied at Gallaudet University in 1989 with an Associate of Applied Science degree. I graduated from Tri-County Community College as a transfer student and earned a bachelor’s degree in 2014. I then transferred to Western Carolina University, studying linguistics and history, and minored in social work politics. I was chosen to spend a summer at Ludwigsburg University of PH in Stuttgart Germany in history and culture of Germany. I have served many years empowering the deaf community in all different kinds of situations with deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing families with deaf children and adults, also children who are deaf and have other disabilities. I have traveled to different countries and have done missionary work in Jamacia in a deaf village.

March 30, 2026