Sign-Language Interpreter

Position Summary: The American Sign Language Educational Interpreter provides communication access for a preschool-aged student who is Hard of Hearing by interpreting spoken English into American Sign Language and voicing signed communication into spoken English. The interpreter supports the student's access to instruction, play, and social interactions while promoting language development and independence. In a preschool setting, the interpreter is expected to take on a language facilitation role in addition to traditional interpreting. Due to the student's age and developmental language level, the interpreter must be willing to support language growth by introducing and reinforcing new vocabulary, expanding concepts, and providing clarification during classroom instruction and play-based activities, all using American Sign Language. This may include, but is not limited to, explaining concepts in more detail, modeling language, and breaking down information to support understanding. The interpreter will regularly check for comprehension and understanding, adjust communication as needed, and support access to both academic and social language.

Job Responsibilities: Interpret spoken language into American Sign Language and voice signed communication into English throughout the school day (including, but not limited to, communication with peers and staff during classroom instruction, play-based activities, and routines).Facilitate language development by introducing new vocabulary, expanding concepts, modeling American Sign Language, explaining ideas in detail, and checking for comprehension. Provide access to incidental language, peer interactions, and spontaneous communication. Collaborate as a member of the educational team (e.g., classroom teacher, Teacher of the Deaf/Hard of Hearing, and related service providers, etc.) to support classroom instruction and IEP goals. Provide in-service for staff members who will be working with the interpreter/DHH student in the educational setting. Demonstrate knowledge of the Ohio Guidelines for Educational Interpreters. Maintain awareness of best practices, emerging trends, and relevant legislation relating to Sign Language and educational interpreting. Maintain confidentiality as required by Ravenna School District policy, The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Professional Code of Conduct, and applicable law as well as adhere to ethical standards for educational interpreters.