What are the responsibilities and job description for the Therapy Assistant - American Sign Language Interpreter @ Special Services position at Special Services?
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
Classified Salary Range
Benefits Available
Special Services Department
6.50 hrs per day/180 workdays per year
Shift time is subject to building needs.
The American Sign Language (ASL) Interpreter is a vital member of our school district's educational team, responsible for facilitating effective communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing students, staff, and the school community. As an ASL Interpreter, you will play a crucial role in ensuring that deaf and hard-of-hearing students have equal access to educational opportunities and participate fully in the academic and social aspects of school life.
QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or GED and a minimum of 72 college quarter credits from a nationally accredited institution/pass ETS test required.
- Fluent in American Sign Language, certification required (EIPA 3.5 or NIC).
- Proficiency in American Sign Language and English, with a deep understanding of ASL grammatical structures and cultural nuances.
- Experience working in educational settings with deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals is highly desirable.
- Knowledge of educational terminology and curriculum concepts to ensure accurate interpretation.
- Must have the ability to relate in a positive way with teachers, parents, and students using tact, courtesy, kindness and good judgment.
- Strong organizational and management skills.
- Must be able to work effectively with large or small groups or individual students under the supervision of certificated staff.
- Prior experience or training working with children in large or small group settings.
- Must be able to apply appropriate discipline according to district procedures and school policies.
- Must have a record of excellent attendance.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Provide skilled ASL interpretation for classroom instruction, lectures, discussions, presentations, and extracurricular activities to enable deaf and hard-of-hearing students to access educational content.
- Convey both spoken language and signed communication accurately and faithfully, ensuring that the intended meaning and nuances are preserved.
- Collaborate closely with teachers, school staff, administrators, and parents to ensure seamless communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing students and their peers and educators.
- Participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and other planning sessions to discuss and strategize on the unique communication needs of each student.
- Assist in the development of students' language and communication skills, offering guidance and feedback to support their linguistic growth.
- Facilitate interactions between students to encourage their social engagement and integration within the school community.
- Stay current with ASL language trends, educational practices, and advancements in interpreting techniques through ongoing professional development opportunities.
- Continuously enhance your understanding of deaf culture, fostering a culturally sensitive and inclusive environment.
- Maintain strict confidentiality in all interactions, respecting the privacy of students, families, and colleagues.
- Adhere to the RID (Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf) Code of Professional Conduct and other ethical guidelines related to interpreting services.
- Adjust interpreting style and techniques to accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of students and educators.
- Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling and adapt to changing situations in the school environment.
- Accept responsibility for assignments and outcomes.
- Work cooperatively with other staff; maintain positive, respectful relationships and engagements.
- Maintain punctuality and regular attendance.
- Maintain district assigned email account; read and respond to messages regularly.
- Other duties as assigned
The Moses Lake School District #161 does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boys Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX, Civil Rights, Affirmative Action, and Equal Opportunity officer, Michelle Musso, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, (509) 766-2650, mmusso@mlsd161.org; OR Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Samantha Burgess, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, (509) 766- 2670, sburgess@mlsd161.org
Salary : $30 - $44