Valerie Scott, the extraordinary 10th-12th grade American Sign Language teacher at Hobbs High School, is a true gem in the heart of New Mexico's educational landscape. In a state where ASL teachers are a rarity, Valerie stands as one of just three, dedicated to opening up the world of Deaf culture and communication to her students. Her goal is nothing short of transformative – to equip her students with the ability to engage in a basic conversation with Deaf individuals while nurturing their understanding of the unique challenges faced by the Deaf community.

But it's not just about learning a language; Valerie infuses her classroom with love and respect, ensuring her students feel not only educated but valued. Her unwavering dedication and encouragement have led to a remarkable 97% passing rate, providing her students with the credits they need to graduate and embark on a path toward greater inclusivity and understanding. Valerie Scott's classroom is a beacon of compassion and achievement, fostering not just language skills but empathy and connection, enriching her students' lives in more ways than one. In her class, students don't just learn a language; they embrace a culture and become advocates for inclusivity in their community.