Fairfield police officers are going back to school to learn a new language.

Students from the ASL club at Fairfield Ludlowe High School are teaching first responders the basic of American Sign Language that can be used when responding to calls involving deaf individuals or people who are hard of hearing.

"More and more high schools are offering American Sign Language because it’s recognized as a world language now," says ASL faculty member Liza Alers. "To know that even more people are being exposed, and being able to communicate with the deaf community is great."

Fairfield Police Sgt. Jenna Wellington says while there’s not a large population in Fairfield of those who are deaf or hearing impaired, sign language is a vital skill officers can use to be more inclusive when responding to calls.

"I’ve actually been able to do that with somebody and their eyes just light up," says Sgt. Wellington. "I’m not going to be able to have a full conversation with them, but they know I at least acknowledge the barrier and I’m going to put forward the effort."

The school is hoping to host more of these classes in the future.

For more information, email LAlers@fairfieldschools.org.