ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The Albuquerque Sign Language Academy (ASLA) is looking to bring new life to a building in the North Valley that has been empty for months.
ASLA’s executive director shared their vision for the space with KRQE News 13.
The building at 4904 4th Street in Albuquerque used to house the North Fourth Art Center, a nonprofit focused on creative education for adults with disabilities.
However, it has been vacant since January 31. Rafe Martinez, ASLA’s executive director, explained, “They had a great run and reputation.
The leadership was fantastic and served the community well. But time passed, and COVID came around, creating an opportunity for us to step in.”
ASLA is currently located in the old La Luz Elementary School Building on Griegos Road.
“We’re a public charter school that has been around for 15 years, serving deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing kids in the same learning environment,” Martinez said.
“What makes us unique is our dual language program in English and American Sign Language. We use language to unify the deaf and hearing communities through sign language.”
Martinez believes the building’s availability is a fortunate opportunity because it aligns with its mission of serving the disabled community and is located nearby.
“Upon approval, it gives our kids access to a state-of-the-art facility for fine arts and performing arts and opens the door for further partnerships,” he said.
First, the lease needs approval. On Monday, the Albuquerque City Council will decide whether to sign over a three-year lease to the school for a thousand dollars a month.
“We’re motivated to liven up this corner of the North Valley and connect the school to the world of fine art,” Martinez said.
Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller supports the effort. “This is special for the school, helping them expand into arts and theater for the deaf community and those with mixed abilities.
It’s a great step for an underserved community, and we’re happy to help,” Keller said.
Martinez hopes the council will agree. “I hope it’s an easy approval, that the city knows we’re dedicated to serving our population.
This connection will benefit economic development and provide programmatic opportunities for many people,” he said.
If the lease is approved, the building will house classrooms and areas for the arts, including an existing black box theater.
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“It helps us programmatically, so there’s a school-use component and a community-use component. It’s not an either/or situation; it’s both,” Martinez explained.
ASLA is currently serving 165 students from kindergarten through early adulthood and has a waitlist for prospective students.