Duties
PURPOSE:
The Educational Sign Language Interpreter transmits messages and environmental cues via a language or code that best meets the needs of the receiver in both academic and non-academic settings. The interpreter is expected to establish and maintain effective, appropriate working relationships with students, parents, and staff. The position calls upon the interpreter to exercise initiative, independent judgment, and discretion in performance of duties. The Educational Interpreter is guided by best practice and by codes of ethics that are outlined by his or her professional organizations.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Interprets teacher’s and other students’ comments to program students during classroom activities.
• Interprets program students’ comments to teachers during classroom activities.
• Reviews coursework materials in advance so that classroom activities can be conveyed clearly and accurately.
• Researches and chooses signs to convey clear meanings in all settings.
• Provides note taking or arranges note taking services.
• Facilitates academic and personal communication for program students by providing interpreting services during tutoring sessions, counseling sessions, annual reviews, school assemblies, and after school activities.
• Provides information about students’ communication and language needs consistent with the team’s direction to teachers in mainstream classes.
• Exhibits knowledge of the language and communication needs of students who are deaf/hard of hearing and the ability to communicate with students who are deaf/hard of hearing.
• Exhibits knowledge of the unique nature of educational interpreting/transliterating.
• Exhibits exemplary interpersonal skills in dealing with students, staff, and parents
• Projects a positive image of the district to students, staff, and parents as well as exhibiting a positive and collaborative attitude on the job.
• Educates students and staff in the strategies, processes, and protocol for using an Interpreter.
• Advocates for communication access and models self-advocacy skills.
• Participates in professional growth activities.
• Participates in staff and building meetings as appropriate and as requested by teachers or by Program Supervisor.
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
• Have or obtain the Illinois State Board of Education Educational Interpreter Approval
• Proficient in American Sign Language
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English to understand directions and communicate with students and staff.
• Ability to physically move about the building.
• Ability to make minor decisions in accordance with established procedures.
• Ability to participate in NSSEO approved behavior management procedures, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) and to apply training in crisis situations including student restraints as needed.
• Proficient in American Sign Language
• Ability to read, write and communicate in English to understand directions and communicate with students and staff.
• Ability to physically move about the building.
• Ability to make minor decisions in accordance with established procedures.
• Ability to participate in NSSEO approved behavior management procedures, Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) and to apply training in crisis situations including student restraints as needed.
Salary/Benefits
Salary - Starting at Lane V Step 0 - ESP Salary Schedule
How to Apply
To apply please submit your application on the NSSEO Website.