Sign Language Interpreter

General Definition of Work The Educational Sign Language Interpreter provides accurate, effective interpreting services that facilitate full access to instruction, communication, and school-related activities for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This role supportsstudent learning by interpreting between spoken English and sign language for students, peers, educators, and staff across a variety of educational environments. Qualifications Demonstrated fluency in English and American Sign Language (ASL). Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) score of 3.5 or higher, or a nationally recognized interpreting certification. Successful completion of the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) Written Assessment. Must be compliant with the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and Educational Interpreter Codes of Professional Conduct. Salary/Status Associate, 185 days/ 7.5 hours per day Reports To Director of Exceptional Students Place of Work The normal place of work is on the premises used by Rock Hill Schools. Rock Hill Schools reserves the right to require you to work at such other place(s) as it may reasonably require from time to time. Essential Functions Provide accurate, complete sign language interpretation for students who are deaf or hard of hearing in classroom and school-related settings. Facilitate communication between students, teachers, peers, and staff while promoting direct interaction. Interpret assignments by reviewing lesson materials and learning subject-specific vocabulary Interpret academic content, classroom discussions, and assessments while maintaining objectivity and assessment integrity Participate as a member of the educational team, including attendance at IEP meetings, conferences, and school activities as assigned. Maintain confidentiality of student information and adhere to professional ethical standards (RID/EIPA). Support students' academic access, independence, and success in instructional and school environments. Monitor and assist assigned students to ensure a safe, positive learning environment, including during field trips and related activities. Collaborate with staff and provide guidance or resources related to Deaf culture and sign language as appropriate. Comply with district policies, schedules, and professional expectations. Other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, Abilities Proficient in American Sign Language (ASL) and familiar with Deaf culture to support effective communication and learning Apply accepted instructional methods and techniques under the direction of a classroom teacher, including the use of American Sign Language (ASL). Assist students by interpreting and supporting communication needs using ASL. Read, understand, and follow written and oral instructions accurately. Perform basic math and handle age-appropriate academic and classroom activities. Demonstrate understanding of grammar, punctuation, and stages of child development. Follow safety practices and established procedures consistently. Schedule activities and meetings and collate with job-related data using defined processes. Use basic, job-related equipment according to established methods. Communicate effectively with diverse groups and individuals. Establish and maintain effective working relationships while ensuring confidentiality. Adapt to changing situations and job conditions while following prescribed guidelines. Education and Experience Minimum employment requirements; high school diploma; college background preferred Certification or formal training in American Sign Language, interpreting, education, or a related field Prior experience working with Deaf or Hard of Hearing students in a school or educational setting. Experience supporting students with special needs and IEPs preferred Experience working with Deaf or Hard of Hearing students in a school or educational setting. Certification, formal training, or coursework in American Sign Language, interpreting, education, or a related field Special Requirements Must have and maintain a valid Driver's License or ability to provide own transportation Must be able to travel to and from different school locations when required Maintain ongoing compliance with the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) and Educational Interpreter Codes of Professional Conduct Must maintain the required continuing education and certification, and licenses as applicable Physical Requirements/Work Conditions Regularly required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers to handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; and talk or hear Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus Frequently required to reach with hands and arms and occasionally required to sit Frequently squat, stoop or kneel, reach above the head and reach forward Frequently bend or twist at the neck and trunk more than the average person while performing the duties of this position Frequent interruptions and immediate attention to unexpected situations are expected Will regularly work indoors and may occasionally work outdoors The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate Disclaimer The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees in this job. Job description is sourced from employee interviews, internal documents, representative job descriptions in similar districts, and other state/federal agencies. Rock Hill Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.