About this role
Sign Language Interpreter Reports To: Campus Principal and Assigned Special Education Administrator Department/Campus: Assigned Campus Exemption Status/Test: Nonexempt Primary Purpose Provide sign language interpreting services and communication support for students who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure equal access to classroom instruction, educational programs, school activities, and campus communications. Facilitate effective communication between students, teachers, staff, peers, and families while supporting the student's academic achievement, independence, and participation in the educational environment. Qualifications Education/Certification
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate degree or higher preferred.
• Certification or demonstrated proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) or another communication system appropriate for the assigned student(s).
• Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA), Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI), Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), or other state-approved certification preferred, when applicable.
Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Demonstrated proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL).
• Knowledge of deaf culture and appropriate communication practices.
• Ability to interpret instructional content accurately and impartially.
• Knowledge of special education laws, confidentiality requirements, and educational terminology.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, parents, and related service providers.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding student information.
Experience
• Experience interpreting in an educational setting preferred.
• Experience working with students who are deaf or hard of hearing preferred.
Major Responsibilities and Duties Interpretation Services
• Provide accurate and effective sign language interpretation during classroom instruction, assessments, tutorials, assemblies, field trips, extracurricular activities, meetings, and other school-related functions.
• Facilitate communication between the student and teachers, administrators, support staff, peers, and visitors while maintaining the integrity and intent of the original message.
• Interpret spoken language into sign language and sign language into spoken language in a clear, accurate, and impartial manner.
• Promote equal access to instructional activities while encouraging student independence and self-advocacy.
Instructional Support
• Assist the student in accessing classroom instruction without modifying or providing instructional content unless directed by the teacher or Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee.
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to become familiar with instructional materials, vocabulary, and lesson content prior to instruction when possible.
• Support implementation of accommodations and services identified in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Assist with classroom organization and instructional activities as directed by the supervising teacher while maintaining the primary role of interpreter.
Student Support
• Encourage positive relationships and effective communication between the student and peers.
• Assist in promoting student participation in academic, extracurricular, and school-sponsored activities.
• Maintain professional boundaries while fostering an inclusive learning environment.
• Monitor and communicate concerns regarding student progress or communication needs to the supervising teacher and special education staff.
Collaboration
• Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, related service providers, and campus administrators to support student success.
• Participate in ARD committee meetings, staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development as assigned.
• Maintain effective communication with district personnel regarding interpreting services and student needs.
Professional Responsibilities
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and information in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), district policy, and applicable laws.
• Maintain professional competence through participation in required training and professional development.
• Demonstrate professionalism, ethical conduct, and effective communication in all interactions.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Supervisory Responsibilities None Working Conditions Mental Demands Maintain emotional control under stress while communicating effectively, managing multiple priorities, and supporting student needs in a fast-paced educational environment. Physical Demands Frequent standing, walking, sitting, reaching, repetitive hand and arm movements associated with sign language interpretation, lifting instructional materials, and occasional assistance with student mobility as required. Environmental Factors Work primarily in classroom and campus environments with occasional participation in outdoor activities, field trips, and school-sponsored events. Standard Statements
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance. Attendance is a necessary job function.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the immediate supervisor in accordance with district needs.
• This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with this position.