Signing Time Academy Official Thread

[Admin]

Here is the official thread for the Signing Time Academy.

[gwencox]

Hi ST Fans,
Just wanted to introduce myself. I am Gwen Cox, the new Signing Time Academy Program Director. We are working hard to get the new Academy set up, so hang on and we will be making announcements very soon.
I know some of you have expressed concern about the ASL requirements, but be assured, we are making entry accessible for almost everyone. I will be able to answer more questions after we lauch, so be patient and watch for news!
I look forward to getting to know all of you and excited to get the NEW Academy in operation.
Gwen Cox

[beenwaitingalongtime]

Yay! I've been eager since I filled out the STA-related survey awhile ago!
Is this where we ask questions?
If so:
-Is there a way to see if our qualifications are acceptable prior to the date applications begin to be accepted? I'm definitely qualified to work even at the master level, but my ASL classes are a bit off the description in the requirements & I'm wondering if I'll need to take an online class just to fulfill it despite my fluency/years of teaching in a school for the Deaf.
-Will templates for marketing materials be provided (ones we can print on our own, as w/ the addt'l activities offered on the ST site)? I'm sure it'd help all instructors to have ready-to-go flyers and posters to advertise the classes w/. Marketing is definitely not my forte ;)
-Will the kit/forum include suggestions for instituting the program in schools, daycare programs, mother's clubs, community classes, etc?
-Is there a way, other than being one of the first to apply, to be in the test group? If so, is there any 'payment' given to those folks, in exchange for their testing services (inc. fdbk, suggestions, surveys, etc.) such as comped monthly fees, reduced kit price, etc?
-Does the monthly fee need to be paid even during months we won't be teaching the course (so, say an instructor takes a few months off for maternity leave, falls ill, takes an extended vacation, etc.--do they have to pay for that time)? If not, what's the process for renewing the license? Will there be addt'l fees for reinstating the license?
-Can we sell the kit if we discontinue w/ the academy? If so, what is the retail value on the materials (DVDs, CDs, flash cards--not so much the curriculm-related items)? I'm on the fence as to whether to do Level 1 and upgrade as I expand...or just do Level 2 right off the bat.
-What do you expect the turnaround time to be if we decide to upgrade to the next level?
-Is it possible to get an in-depth curriculum description (to be used as a proposal to schools for the program) as well as a cost basis explanation (what materials the students might need through the duration of the program--what it'll cost per student to be in the program outside of the instructor fees)? I've got a middle school which is wanting to implement ASL as a foreign language in their school, but I'm suggesting a 'test' in the form of an elective so they can see if they should fully invest in it. I think the ST program would be perfect for this test, but would probably have to hold off on upgrading to the next level ($-wise) till I've got a commitment from the school.

That's all for now. I'm sure I have more. I've been teaching sign to Hearing kids for some time now, but am really looking forward to not having to create my own curriculum as I've had to thus far. I've had this program on my mind since the initial survey & am really looking forward to it :)

[CEVmommy]

I have taken ASL when I was in college, but it was more than 8 years ago (1998), so I guess it doesn't count.

I have also taken ASL at my local community college more recently (within 8 years anyway I think), but these were "continuing education" courses, not "college transferable" courses. I think they were graded just pass/fail. Does this type of class count for the education requirement?

[ST! LeeAnn]

As you may have heard, the Signing Time Academy is our soon-to-be-released program for creating Certified Instructors who can teach Signing Time classes and and sell Signing Time products in their communities. This is a great opportunity to share your passion for Signing Time and earn money doing it!

If you have been waiting for more information on becoming a Certified Instructor, here it is (http://www.signingtime.com/academy). This basic information will give you a head start to prepare for the program's test launch. Read all the requirements and start gathering everything for your application, and pre-register to let us know you're interested.

We'll soon be launching the program in its initial testing phase which includes accepting applications and getting our very first Instructors up and running. The first wave of Instructors will be able to test out our programs and processes and offer valuable feedback that will shape the success of the Academy.

[beenwaitingalongtime]

I just added some more questions to my original post above.
I've been thinking about this program all. day. long :o

[gwencox]

Love all of the questions, so let's tackle each one:
#1-Qualifications?-Not sure what you mean by "a bit off the description" can you explain. If you have taken and (passed) at least one accredited ASL course through either a University, College, or Vocational School. Or have completed courses through www.signingonline.com then you have met the Baby Signing Time Instructors ASL course requirement. If you have at least 2 ASL courses, you qualify for the Advanced Instructors level. If you have 4 approved ASL courses completed, you are ready for the Master Level. If you personally have taught in the school for the deaf for several years, you are definitely qualified to become a Master Level Instructor.
#2-Templates-There are going to be a number of materials for each Instructor to use when marketing their classes. There are also materials that are in the works and will be released when completed. We anticipate that there are going to be items that we will need to add during the intial launch phase. We are hoping to create a library in the Academy that you will have access to when building your business. Many of these are in development, and we are working long hours to get as much out as quickly as possible. We want to provide you with all of the tools to help you make your business the best it can be.
#3-Venue suggestions-Yes there will be a lot of suggestions and we will be adding to the list as soon as we have several Instructors on board. All Instructors will be networking together and sharing ideas.
#4-Test group-The test group will be all of the Instructors that join us in the launch on October 19th. This is going to be what is called a "soft launch" and hopefully we will have all of the rough spots smoothed out by the first of year. So everyone that joins early will be among the pioneers of the Academy. I don't believe there is any compensation, but if there is, I am sure they will share that with everyone.
#5-Licensing Fees-Licensing Fees will continue as long as you are an Instructor and listed on the site as one. You will continue to receive exposure even if you are on maternity leave, so to shut things down periodically is not a good thing. If there were serious problems, we would have to deal with them on a case by case situation. I am waiting on an official answer to this one, so watch for an addendum to this message.
#6-Selling your Kit if you leave. You can sell your Kit if you decide to leave the Academy. You can go to the Academy Store link and locate all of the msrp of all products to determine the value. Upgrading is a great option and one that I think we have tried to make accessible for everyone. Each upgrade is $200, so the investment is quite low and easy to make the change. You must, however, also complete the video submissions for each upgrade too!
#7-Turnaround time-We plan on having a turnaround time of 72 hours after we receive the videos and the upgraded payment, so we are going to be working hard for the Academy to make the transitions very smooth.
#8-Curriculum usage in schools-The Classroom Edition is a COMPLETE curriculum and has an in-depth description...but if you need something specific, we will be happy to assist you with any specific need or approach you will need help with. I must add that this program is not designed to teach ASL as a language, but as a resource to help children communicate and as a tool to support spoken language, both written and oral.
I agree 100% that this program is unique and will not have any competition.
If you have any more questions, please ask. We want everyone to feel comfortable asking any questions about the new Academy and we will be here to assist you in any way that we can. We want you to be a success!

[sunny21284]

I am very excited. My husband says this is the first thing he stands behind me wholeheartedly on that has an upfront cost. Now to dig out those high school report cards.....:p

[gwencox]

Remember that you can contact the last school you attended and get a copy of your transcript if you cannot find yours. Since we aren't launching until the middle of October, you have some time to get this done. Just thought I would add that so that some of you won't have to drag everything out of drawers looking for proof! ;)

[beenwaitingalongtime]

Thanks for your response, Gwen!


Love all of the questions, so let's tackle each one:
#1-Qualifications?-Not sure what you mean by "a bit off the description" can you explain. If you have taken and (passed) at least one accredited ASL course through either a University, College, or Vocational School. Or have completed courses through www.signingonline.com then you have met the Baby Signing Time Instructors ASL course requirement. If you have at least 2 ASL courses, you qualify for the Advanced Instructors level. If you have 4 approved ASL courses completed, you are ready for the Master Level. If you personally have taught in the school for the deaf for several years, you are definitely qualified to become a Master Level Instructor.
Yep, ok. That's what I meant--I have 5 courses and 2 Teaching Assistant placements in ASL but 4 of those are beyond the 8 year deadline they had to have been taken within. This is because I spent 8 of the last 10 years as a Teacher for the Deaf and those courses were taken postgraduate. The other requirement said you had to be currently working in the field of ASL, but I've been on sabatical for the last 2 yrs to be w/ my babies. SO...I was kind of in-between the requirements, but still know I'm fluent enough in the language to work at any level of the Academy. Just wasn't sure how hard and fast those rules were ;)
#2-Templates-There are going to be a number of materials for each Instructor to use when marketing their classes. There are also materials that are in the works and will be released when completed. We anticipate that there are going to be items that we will need to add during the intial launch phase. We are hoping to create a library in the Academy that you will have access to when building your business. Many of these are in development, and we are working long hours to get as much out as quickly as possible. We want to provide you with all of the tools to help you make your business the best it can be.
Excellent. WIll be super helpful to not have to work from the ground up & just focus on getting out there and implementing the program.
#3-Venue suggestions-Yes there will be a lot of suggestions and we will be adding to the list as soon as we have several Instructors on board. All Instructors will be networking together and sharing ideas.
#4-Test group-The test group will be all of the Instructors that join us in the launch on October 19th. This is going to be what is called a "soft launch" and hopefully we will have all of the rough spots smoothed out by the first of year. So everyone that joins early will be among the pioneers of the Academy. I don't believe there is any compensation, but if there is, I am sure they will share that with everyone.
#5-Licensing Fees-Licensing Fees will continue as long as you are an Instructor and listed on the site as one. You will continue to receive exposure even if you are on maternity leave, so to shut things down periodically is not a good thing. If there were serious problems, we would have to deal with them on a case by case situation. I am waiting on an official answer to this one, so watch for an addendum to this message.
#6-Selling your Kit if you leave. You can sell your Kit if you decide to leave the Academy. You can go to the Academy Store link and locate all of the msrp of all products to determine the value. Upgrading is a great option and one that I think we have tried to make accessible for everyone. Each upgrade is $200, so the investment is quite low and easy to make the change. You must, however, also complete the video submissions for each upgrade too!
Ok, sounds good. This info. should help those that are nervous about the initial $ outlay to see that they CAN make their $ back, should things not work out.
#7-Turnaround time-We plan on having a turnaround time of 72 hours after we receive the videos and the upgraded payment, so we are going to be working hard for the Academy to make the transitions very smooth.
Wow! That's quite a task! Sounds like it'll be super-easy to upgrade.
#8-Curriculum usage in schools-The Classroom Edition is a COMPLETE curriculum and has an in-depth description...but if you need something specific, we will be happy to assist you with any specific need or approach you will need help with. I must add that this program is not designed to teach ASL as a language, but as a resource to help children communicate and as a tool to support spoken language, both written and oral.
I agree 100% that this program is unique and will not have any competition.


Ok, new question...
I've put feelers out in my community, focusing on the Parks & Recreation community classes in my surrounding towns. One town currently offers a one-day ASL-based baby signs workshop which hasn't been all that well-received. This makes them nervous to implement any other sign language-related programs.
After a bit of back-and-forth, I think I've reopened their minds, as I showed the great contrast in a one-day workshop vs. several sessions in a mommy & me style setting. I've also peaked their interest in adding an elementary-aged program which they've never tried before.
So, now I've got them interested and they want to meet w/ me asap for more information. While they are aware that the program won't roll out until late October (their Winter sessions start in mid-November, so it'd be crucial to lay down the groundwork for the classes sooner rather than later), they want more information.
Without having seen the materials/format/curriculum yet, I'm not sure what else to tell them that specifically explains the STA program. Got anything to offer to give them a taste of what's to come?
I spoke till I was blue in the face of the benefits of an ASL program, the trend of mommy & me classes that's so abundant here, as well as the recent acceptance of ASL as a foreign language in the State colleges/universities here (and the parents around here are ALL about giving their young kids a head-start to college-based skills.) I just need more STA-related info. to whet their appetite.
I think the presentation materials will be key to raising interest in the community/helping the Recreation administration see the need for the STA program and am looking forward to offering those locally!
Got any suggestions/expanded info I can share?

[joyfulheart]

I emailed a tough question to you directly.

[ST! LeeAnn]

Here is the information we have posted on our website about the classes:

http://www.signingtime.com/academy

Baby Signing Time Play & Sign classes are a "mommy-and-me" format, where parents with babies and toddlers (3-36 months) can come together for some quality play time. The curriculum centers around ASL vocabulary and songs taught in the Baby Signing Time DVDs. You'll practice and learn ASL signs as you sing songs, play games, read books, wiggle around, and engage in fun activities. Each class is approximately 45 minutes in length. Two 8-week sessions are offered. (Class offerings may vary at the instructor's discretion.)

Signing Time Classes are offered through Certified Instructors in a similar format. Instructors may hold weekly classes, one-time introductory workshops, playgroups, or simple outings that give children and parents the opportunity to practice the signs they are learning from the Signing Time DVD series.

[joyfulheart]

WHen is the soonest we can purchase the kits?

As I've said before, I have a child with lung disease. We're going to be stuck inside for a while. If I was able to practice and study the material, it might help me keep my sanity as a nice distraction. ANd I know he'd enjoy the distractions too.

[lilstar]

A couple questions!

I already have the BST dvds and CDs, would I be able to buy the kit without them, to save a little bit on the start up fees?

And more importantly, just how important is the diploma/ged? I homeschooled most of high school, and then just went straight to college without formally graduating. Can I use a college transcript, and maybe a recommendation from a school advisor instead of a diploma/ged? I can take the ged test if necessary, just ideally I wouldn't have to :) I wouldn't be able to do so until my baby is little bit bigger as I'm his only food source at the moment and I can't leave him yet.

[ImJAZZed14]

I've got a smiliar question as an earlier member. I went through an interpreter training program, graduating in 2000. That was obviously more than 8 years ago now. I worked as a certified interpreter for 4 years after that though, quitting in 2004 when I found out I was pregnant. I am not currently certified. Without knowing the cost of the kit (money is VERY tight right now) I'd like to go for the Master Level, however from the description my ASL classes don't qualify.

My question is if I'm right that I would have to take more ASL classes in order to qualify.

[joyfulheart]

I already asked about lowering the price (I already have the classroom edition) they said no, but that I could sell it... :(

As far as the GED/Diploma issue, I'm not trying to answer ST policy, but I do know here in Texas, if you're homeschooled, your guardian stating you have graduated (and even making thier own transcripts/diploma) is 100% legal. I know other states do that also. You graduated! Of course, ST Academy might have different point of view...

[gwencox]

Good Morning future Instructors! (Has a nice ring to it!)
Let me try and address some of the concerns that several applicants have expressed and hopefully it will also answer questions or concerns that others might have but have not posted yet. (this is a long one...sorry!)
*Launch begins October 19, 2009. 10 days from today! You will be able to begin the process at that point and depending on how prepared you are, you should move through the process smoothly. After you complete the application form, you will be able to purchase the package that matches the Level you are applying for. We are attempting to make this as simple and efficient as possible. We do not want people waiting weeks to get their materials. Our initial goal is to have items out the door within 72 hours! I know it is ambitous, but we have worked hard to get everything ready for the Academy and this was part of our goal.
*Education requirements: If you took ASL classes years ago, that is great. What we are wanting to know is are you using those skills today? Are you teaching? Are you using them in your business? If you took the classes more than 8 years ago and have not used them, then you will need to take classes to refresh your skills.
If you were home-schooled, you will need documentation proving that you completed your course work. That can be a letter from the parent or adult that taught you. (There needs to be contact information on all documentation in case we need to do any follow up).
For Advanced and Master Level, we do need to see documentation that proves you completed the required number of courses. You have 10 days to collect that information. We will accept transcripts that you have in your possession. We do not have to have the official transcript from the College or University, your copy will work. Waiting on the University can sometimes take weeks, and we don't want you to wait. 99.99999% of our applicants are honest and will not provide bogus documentation, so provide us with what you have.
*Start-up Packages: We are so fortunate to have so many passionate ST fans that have applied to become Instructors and I am excited to get to talk to each and everyone of you as you come through the Interview stage of the application. Some of you that have all of our products are asking if you can have "a less expensive package" without all of the tools that are currently included. The answer is no, and let me explain. We set up the packages to provide you with all of the tools that you will need to begin teaching your classes and workshops. Some of you already have all of the ST and BST products and that is great! That means that the products that are included in your package will be available to sell to one of your new students. You will be able to recoup a large portion of your initial investment during your first class! I don't know many businesses that can make that offer. The cost of the start-up package is not based just on the products. You are investing in so many other elements of the new Academy. You will be able to use the name Signing Time or Baby Signing Time, you will have access to Forums, to the Director, to professionals that will motivate and inspire you. You will have discount schedules that will allow you to make a healthy profit and grow your business. You will have curriculums and materials that will make your job as an Instructor much easier. If you are applying for the Advanced or Master Level Instructor and you already purchased the Classroom Edition, GREAT! Contact schools, pre-schools, a family interested in learning more, Childcare Centers, or any of a dozen locations that would love to have the Classroom Edition to use with their students!
Use your products as a motivator to get people to come to your first class. Tell them if they purchase X number ($$) of products from you, they can come to the first class for FREE! You move the products, you recoup your investment, you get excited people to come to your first class, they go out and tell others about how much fun they had, they send new people to your second round of classes, and it pays itself forward. WIN/WIN!
So if you have some or all of the products listed on the Level you are applying for, be creative and decide how you can market those NEW products that are in your package and repay yourself for your investment as an Instructor in the Academy. Once you have access to the Academy Forum for Instructors, you can share your story with others and we all benefit.
Once you are approved and certified, you will be among the most prestigious group of educators in the world! Signing Time is moving forward and the opportunities to expand your business are endless. I am looking forward to 2010 and I want all of you to join me and become a part of this movement to share this wonderful program with every family you meet!
If you have any other questions, please ask. Once we get the Academy launched and the dust settles, I will respond to your questions daily.
Thanks for your insightful questions and let's get moving!!!!

[sunny21284]

I have ben thinking about how much the classes would cost for the students. The number I come up with is pretty affordable. It is MUCH lower than another signing "Mommy and Me" class that I just heard about. I want to make sure this is an opportunity that is affordable to everyone. How are we determining the cost? Will it be a set Academy wide rate? Or will it be determined by each Instructor? I am very passionate about the cost being affordable.

Stephanie
Mom to Brady, 19 Months 100+ signs

[joyfulheart]

I completely agree!

I live in an area that is full of struggling parents (who isn't?? LOL).

People around me aren't spending money on nails, or vacations, they're worrying about food! :D

So low cost, even the ability to offer "scholarships" to the most needy would be nice. I'm a firm believer no child that WANTS to learn should be left out, just because of money. I'd rather not make a dime, than to exclude kids that want to learn! :D





I have ben thinking about how much the classes would cost for the students. The number I come up with is pretty affordable. It is MUCH lower than another signing "Mommy and Me" class that I just heard about. I want to make sure this is an opportunity that is affordable to everyone. How are we determining the cost? Will it be a set Academy wide rate? Or will it be determined by each Instructor? I am very passionate about the cost being affordable.

Stephanie
Mom to Brady, 19 Months 100+ signs

[greenmatter]

Thanks! Looking forward to this-

[gwencox]

“I already have the complete set of Signing Tine/Baby Signing Time Videos; can you just deduct the cost of those items from my start up costs?”
This question has come up several times in the last few days, and I wanted to address it with everyone so that there is a clear understanding of what a great deal we are offering all of our Signing Time applicants. In today’s economy where everyone is looking for the best “deal”, Signing Time Academy candidates are no different than anyone else wanting to save money. We are making an offer that will equip you with the essential tools to start your business and become the success you dream of being. Let me explain:
Each level has its own Start-Up Kit with its own special set of tools… and a Manual… AND Curriculums. The cost of each Start-Up Kit is NOT based solely on the products alone. As a matter of fact, the products are practically being given to you to help equip your business with the tools you will need to show parents and professionals the Signing Time and Baby Signing Time products.
If you already have the products, that is fantastic! We love hearing that. That means you already understand the value of the products and how they can benefit families. You have a head start! Are the products you already own in a condition to show other families, or are they a little worn looking? Remember this is your business and students will judge the quality of the classes by the tools being presented. If your products look good, then take the products from your Start-Up Kit and consider them “inventory” - purchased WAY below wholesale - to sell to your family and friends! You can sell all of your products and recoup the cost of your Start-Up Kit. It’s a total win/win situation.
In addition to the products, curriculums, teaching materials, access to training videos (coming soon!), and many other perks, your investment in your business is actually quite reasonable.
Consider that it only takes one small class to completely reimburse yourself for your Start-Up Kit AND your annual membership/licensing fee.
I am looking forward to talking with all of you during the interview stage of the Certification process. If you have any other questions, let me know. Either I or one of the team members at the Academy will answer them for you.
Talk to all of you soon!

[greenmatter]

sounds good

[ST! Rebecca]

Hello friends --

Because we've been getting a bunch of questions about the application and certification process, we are hosting a conference call to introduce the Signing Time Academy and to answer your questions.

Conference Call Date: Thursday, October 22, 2009
Conference Call Time: Noon - 1pm MST/ 2pm-3pm EST/11am - 12pm PST

Conference Call Number: 1-605-475-4800
Access Code: 607013#

Agenda for the Conference Call:

You'll be hearing from a few VIPs - Lex de Azevedo (President of Two Little Hands Productions), along with Gwen Cox (Academy Director), Emilie Brown and Rachel Coleman (Co-Creators of Signing Time), and Rebecca Overson (Academy Staff).

Questions & Answer Period

Do you have questions? We will answer questions live as well as questions emailed to us beforehand.

Please take a moment now and email any question you have about the Signing Time Academy to support@signingtimeacademy.com so we can be prepared to give you all the information you need.

If you can't make the call, don't worry - a recording will be posted here on the Signing Time Forums.

Hope to hear from you soon!

The Signing Time Academy Staff

[Megan8987]

I don't know if this has come up yet. But I'm going to try and go for the BST instructor position when I complete my ASL course. The ages are from 0-3, but what happens when Parents cant find sitters for their older children? What do I tell the parents?

[beenwaitingalongtime]

I'm sure there'll be more ideas tossed around on the STA lounge forum, but...
It really depends on your situation. In many cases, kids 4+ are in some sort of preschool during the day. If you do a mommy & me around 10am (seems to be the most popular time around here), they might be in school. If they're under 4, you could charge an additional fee for siblings. If you're running your classes through a parks & rec-type situation, maybe suggest they see what other activities are being offered at the same time for the older child. (or maybe you'll find someone certified at the advanced level in your area who's running a class for older kids at that time?) If the classes are around dinner time, maybe the other parent can watch the older child after work?
If it were me, I'd probably just wait and see how things went--most of the time parents make arrangements to suit their needs. I did mommy & me swim classes w/ my DD and I know I wasn't the only one w/ another child who needed to be watched while I was in the pool. I had a friend watch the baby while I swam, then I watched her baby while she swam in the class after ours.
If it turns out that you're running into a lot of families who can't make arrangements around siblings, maybe it'd benefit your business if you upgraded to Advanced so you could broaden the age range a bit.
My original plan was to start w/ BST and upgrade if needed, but turns out that the baby sign market is flooded by another instructor's program, so I'm starting out at Advanced right off the bat so I can get my foot in the door by offering classes for ages 5-10.
I was wondering for myself how I'd get coverage for MY kids while working, as it turns out that a lot of playgroup mommies want classes on weekday mornings (ODD's in preschool, but baby's w/ me.) My solution was to find a mommy of one of ODD's classmates and pay her to watch the baby. Just one paying student in my class would pay her salary, while I'm still earning the payments of all of the other students, so works for me. Maybe you could hire a 'babysitter' to play w/ watch the other kids at a small fee to the parents?

[Megan8987]

Hey those aren't bad ideas thanks! I've been looking around at other Sign Language classes and I found like..3. So myself and any other ST Instructors are going to do great here I think...hopefully. :rolleyes: Thanks for the advice!

[ST! LeeAnn]

We are excited to have the Signing Time Academy on Facebook along with Signing Time and the Signing Time Foundation. Check it out and become a fan of all three.

[carlobee]

wow! that's really great! :) I use facebook a lot ;)

http://storeyourpicture.com/images/signature_dvd.jpg

[mlbo]

Hi! I was just wondering when the "official" launch date of the STA was? Just curious! Thanks!

[jenml]

It's up and running... I'm not the best person to explain it, but I know others will jump on board and help you out. Hang on...

[mlbo]

Just trying to figure out if it started 10/09 or 10/10. I think it was one of those...just curious! Thanks!

[Admin]

Hi! I was just wondering when the "official" launch date of the STA was? Just curious! Thanks!

It Launched October 19th, 2009

[mlbo]

Great, thanks!