Part Time Interpreter

Southeast Texas Rdspd Certified Sign Language Interpreter

Primary Purpose: To interpret for deaf and hard-of-hearing (DHH) students Pre-K through 12th grade in a variety of educational settings, to assist the deaf education teacher in the academic development of those students, and to assist in the preparation and organization of classroom activities.

Qualifications:

• Education/Certification: High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid Interpreter Certification from the Texas Board for Evaluation of Interpreters (BEI) or the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)
• Special Knowledge/Skills: Must be able to interpret/transliterate expressively and receptively Ability to interpret in or willingness to learn Signing Exact English (SEE) sign system Knowledge of the interpreter role and the Code of Ethics Ability to work well with deaf and hard-of-hearing children Knowledge of deaf culture General knowledge of language development and child development Strong people skills and team player
• Experience: One year of experience providing interpreting services or working with children

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

• Interpret/transliterate according to the specifications of the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Assume responsibility for learning and adapting to each student's communication needs.
• Interpret in educational settings, including but not limited to school-related programs, class activities, tutorial support, extracurricular activities, parent meetings, and Admissions Review and Dismissal (ARD) meetings.
• Assist classmates and deaf/hard of hearing student(s) to understand the role of the interpreter and the social and communication needs of the deaf/hard of hearing student, and also support the teacher in developing a level of comfort with the interaction styles and needs of the DHH students.
• Become and remain well-versed in the deaf education classroom or general education classroom course materials to demonstrate competency in the interpreting or transliterating process.
• Assist with in-class support in either the self-contained deaf education setting or the general education setting (i.e. small group instruction, individual tutoring, or clarification of information presented by the teacher).
• Take class notes to facilitate instruction for the student(s)
• Demonstrate flexibility when role shifts take place (i.e. in-class support vs. interpreting in a self-contained deaf education setting or in the general education setting).
• Be informed, monitor, and report to the deaf education teacher when concerns arise about the student's attention, comprehension, general academic progress, and accommodations/modifications approved by the Admissions Review and Dismissal Committee (ARD).
• Work collaboratively with co-workers and supervisors to ensure that the goals of the school/program are met.
• Demonstrate professionalism in all ethical areas, especially in applying the Interpreter Code of Ethics to the educational setting as well as all communication.
• Assist the deaf education teacher(s) with: Evaluation and reporting of student performance and progress Individual and/or group instruction activities General supervision of students in all settings Clerical duties, hearing aid checks, FM system checks, etc Any other classroom-related activities
• Cooperate with other staff members in students' movement from one activity to another.
• Serve as a role model for students in: Personal appearance and dress Usage of appropriate speech, signing vocabulary, and other means of communication Personal behavior at all times. Accept personal responsibility for caring for school facilities, supplies, and equipment. Encourage students to do the same. Develop and maintain proper attitudes, good work habits, and respect for the rights and properties of others. Encourage students to do the same.
• Operate by district regulations and within the framework of any specific guidelines of the buildings to which assigned. Assist with and participate in all school activities (district, and/or individual school), cooperate with teacher(s) assigned, and assist in providing general supervision of DHH students in all settings. Participate in continuing professional development as required by the certification governing body. Work with any identified RDSPD student in any assignment. Participate in appropriate district and school in-service activities. Perform other duties as assigned.

Equipment Used: Computer, Printer, Copier, Audio-Visual Equipment, Sound Field Systems, and Amplification Devices

Working Conditions:

• Mental Demands Ability to communicate effectively in receptive and expressive sign language as well as spoken/written English Ability to paraphrase, clearly explain, and accurately convey/receive signed and spoken information Maintain emotional control while working with students and adults Ability to repair communication breakdowns
• Physical Demands Repetitive hand motions due to signing Moderate, bending, stooping, lifting, standing, walking
• Environmental Demands Normal office environment Exposure to childhood communicable diseases; good general health and stamina needed Limited driving

The Beaumont Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, or sex in the educational programs or activities that it operates and is an equal opportunity employer.