Welcome!

 

Hello! I’m Jon Furman, and I am thrilled to be a part of the Texas School for the Deaf community, where I teach middle school social studies and public speaking, with a focus on Texas History. As a profoundly Deaf individual who uses a cochlear implant, my journey has shaped my teaching approach and passion for education in unique ways.

 

Growing up in a mainstream environment where I was the only Deaf student and didn’t have an ASL interpreter, I faced distinct challenges but also gained invaluable experiences. It wasn’t until I attended the Rochester Institute of Technology that I learned American Sign Language, which opened up new avenues for communication and connection. I completed my Master’s in Deaf Education in 2012 and have been dedicated to teaching since 2014.

 

My teaching career began in Atlanta, GA, at the Atlanta Area School for the Deaf, and I later moved to Massachusetts to be a middle school classroom teacher at The Learning Center for the Deaf. In 2020, I took a big leap and moved to Austin, TX, where I absolutely fell in love with the warm weather. Having grown up in the north, I would much rather melt than freeze!

 

My passion for history ignited during my 8th-grade year, inspired by a teacher who skillfully blended humor with facts in his lessons. It was the first class I looked forward to, and it instilled in me a love for storytelling and the impactful narratives woven throughout our past. I relish the opportunity to explore artifacts and engage with history, especially when visiting museums.

 

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy binge-watching popular Netflix shows—particularly historical dramas—and spending quality time with my wife and four animals (two cats and two dogs). I'm also an active participant in the Austin Metro Baseball League, where I embrace my love for the sport.

 

I'm excited to contribute to the vibrant TSD community and connect with fellow educators, students, and families. The sense of belonging I've found here is truly remarkable, and I look forward to sharing my passions and experiences with all of you!