EC SPANISH INTERPRETER

Exceptional Children’s Spanish Interpreter

Reports To:  Executive Director of Special Education

Purpose: The Spanish Interpreter for the Special Education Department facilitates accurate and confidential communication between Spanish-speaking parents/guardians and school personnel regarding special education services. This role includes oral interpretation during meetings such as IEPs (Individualized Education Programs), evaluations, and assessments, as well as written translation of special education documents to ensure compliance with IDEA and other legal requirements.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Fluency in Spanish and English (speaking, reading, and writing) required.
• Strong knowledge of special education terminology in both languages preferred.
• Experience providing interpretation and/or translation in a school or special education setting highly preferred.
• Knowledge of IEP procedures, IDEA regulations, and FERPA confidentiality requirements.
• Strong interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity.
• Ability to remain neutral, objective, and professional in emotionally charged meetings.
• Ability to sit, listen, and speak for extended periods during meetings.
• Use of standard office equipment, including translation software and digital devices.
• Must be able to travel between multiple schools within the district.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain focus in high-stakes or sensitive meetings

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Interpretation:

• Provide real-time, accurate oral interpretation between English and Spanish during:
  • IEP meetings
  • Eligibility meetings
  • Parent-teacher conferences regarding special education
  • Evaluation/assessment sessions
  • Manifestation determination meetings
• Interpret conversations between school staff (teachers, psychologists, therapists) and Spanish-speaking families related to special education meetings, services, supports, and plans.
• May require flexible scheduling, including occasional evenings for IEP meetings.

Translation:

• Translate special education-related documents such as:
  • IEPs
  • Prior Written Notices
  • Evaluation reports
  • Consent forms
  • Progress reports
  • Meeting notices and follow-ups
  • Local documents
• Ensure translations are accurate, professional, and legally compliant.

Support and Advocacy:

• Act as a cultural and linguistic liaison to help families understand the special education process and their rights under federal and state laws (IDEA, Section 504).
• Assist families in navigating resources, programs, and school procedures related to special education.

Confidentiality and Compliance:

• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student information and records in compliance with FERPA and HIPAA.
• Understand and apply terminology and procedures specific to special education.

Collaboration and Training:

• Collaborate with case managers, school psychologists, speech therapists, and other special education team members.
• Participate in training sessions related to language access, special education law, and cultural competency as required.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary:

Salary : $18 - $22