Elementary Class Learns Cueing For Deaf Classmate

Miss-Delectable

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http://wcco.com/local/local_story_144231358.html

At Deerwood Elementary school in Eagan, an entire classroom volunteered to give up going outside for recess.

They've made that sacrifice since October so they could learn how to communicate with a special classmate. His name is Justin Feeser and he's deaf.

Justin Feeser said his friendships have improved, now that his buddies are learning how to cue.

They're not learning sign language. They're learning cueing -– hand signals that help deaf people to read lips. Different positions of the hand help to provide a visual cue for each sound of each word.

While children are out at recess, Justin's friends take cueing class.

"Especially on a day like today -- it's special. The fact that they've given it up once per week all year, it's not normal," said teacher Amy Voorhees.

It's well worth it, after all, these kids go way back.

"I've known Justin since kindergarten and he's been a really good friend," said Kaitlyn Palma, third grader.

Justin's twin, Derek Feeser, said the class has changed his brother.

"He's happy and it's easy to talk to him because you like knows how to cue," Derek said.

It takes about 15 hours to learn basic cueing. Justin is learning the skill too.

Wednesday was Justin's birthday and his class had a cake and a special gift, singing happy birthday while cueing. The class has been practicing just for Justin.
 
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