Junior Achievement of Utah welcomed deaf students, their coaches and interpreters from schools for the deaf in both Utah and Idaho to participate in JA BizTown, “DeafTown”, at the Spencer F. Eccles JA City. The goal of these schools is to educate students so that they can achieve their full academic, social and career potential. Their day in JA City did just that by teaching and encouraging the students in each of these areas.
It was a unique and special day for everyone involved. Students used American Sign Language throughout the day to work in their businesses, deposit checks at the bank, apply for loans, go shopping and socialize with friends and mentors.
In DeafTown, the students experienced a day where everyone spoke their language. One of the interpreters explained that in day-to-day life, deaf people are often overlooked and feel isolated because most people cannot communicate with them. On this day, they seemed to feel impowered to work and learn in a community where they could advocate for themselves, have a job, talk to any person and accomplish their tasks with independence.
JA Staff members were impressed with the students’ self-reliance boldly demonstrated throughout their JA City experience. As they started their businesses at the beginning of the day, they took initiative utilizing instructional resources more so than the average participant. In general, the tone of the business day had a quiet determined focus of exceptional accomplishment. DJ music and dancing was still enjoyed throughout the day. Favorite selections included ‘Eye of the Tiger’ and familiar holiday tunes. This day to remember ended with big smiles, high fives and hugs and was made possible because of the strong support and involvement of the adult mentors in the deaf community. We would like to thank everyone who was involved in making this very memorable day possible.
