Mount Rogers Primary School in Canberra has launched an innovative Auslan program, making it the first public school in the ACT to adopt Australian Sign Language as a second language. This shift was motivated by the presence of nine Deaf and hard-of-hearing students at the school, aiming to enhance communication and inclusivity. With every child from preschool to year 6 participating in the program, the school has created a unique environment where all students are learning to sign and communicate with their peers who are Deaf or hard-of-hearing.

The change from Mandarin to Auslan is not just a curriculum adjustment; it reflects a growing awareness of the importance of inclusivity in education. The specialist Auslan teacher, Simone Xirakis, has observed a positive transformation in the school community. As students actively engage in signing, they are breaking down language barriers and enhancing social connections with their Deaf classmates. Xirakis has been adapting the curriculum to keep pace with the students' rapid progress, which indicates a growing enthusiasm for learning Auslan.

As the program evolves, it showcases the potential of language education to foster empathy and understanding among young children. This approach not only benefits the Deaf community within the school but also prepares hearing students to engage with a broader range of communication styles in their lives, promoting a more inclusive society overall. The success of this Auslan program can serve as a model for other institutions considering similar initiatives to support Deaf and hard-of-hearing students.