Santa visits deaf and hearing impaired students at Brennen Elementary

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — With Christmas only 10 days away, Santa Claus has a busy week ahead. But this morning, he still took time out of his schedule to visit a class of deaf and hearing impaired students at Brennen Elementary School.

Sponsored by the Richland Sertoma Club, the event known as “Signing Santa” has been going on for the past 25 years.

Through American Sign Language, the kids and Santa enjoy reading books, singing carols, and getting presents!

“Sign language is a wonderful language, and some things you cannot translate specifically to English. Like this,  which is the emotion that I feel when I see the kids and their families, are so happy, communicating with one another and it’s just a good feeling,” says Santa.

Lesley Jeske and her daughter Alyssa are hearing impaired. Jeske finds that its nice for the hearing world and deaf world to come together so everyone feels appreciated.

“It’s inspiring for Santa to come, and I notice that Alyssa feels happy that Santa cares for the deaf community enough to come see these kids,” Jeske signs.

Alyssa’s teacher, Jenn Mulling, says she hopes more of the hearing world learns ASL.

“If you just learn the basics, even if you’re like a retail worker in a store, it’s as easy as saying thank you and you’re welcome, or hello. Just basic signs that everybody should know so they can communicate with everyone because it’s very inviting to be able to communicate with everyone,” Mulling says.

Brendan and Kyng are also in Mulling’s class and look forward to seeing Santa each year.

“Oh yea I got my favorite gift. I saw him carrying in a big bag of gifts. And I like playing games with two cars, and also a motorcycle — a car and a motorcycle both of them,” Brendan and Kyng sign.

And Santa says all 10 students are on his good list this year. “I hope everyone here has a peaceful and silent night. Merry Christmas,” Santa says.