Discover Interpreting

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Do you find fulfillment working with children…but don’t feel teaching is your calling? Have you considered becoming a qualified Sign Language Interpreter who provides the visual access needed for students to actively participant in their own learning with teachers and peers? Federal law (2004) has classified educational interpreters as related service personnel, which continues to strengthen the job market for educational interpreters across the United States. Working in this specialized arena provides constant stimulation as you work for students of different ages, abilities and interests…in different subject areas and at different academic levels…with different educational team members.

Educational interpreting is a challenging profession that requires proficiencies in American Sign Language and English and the mastery of cognitive interpreting processes. Competent educational interpreters must also demonstrate knowledge sets related to child development and language acquisition, subject matter expertise as well as K-12 pedagogy, educational laws related to interpreter roles and responsibilities, and functional aptitude with other support systems (e.g., FM systems, CART, Cochlear Implants) used by students who are deaf or hard of hearing. All of these knowledge and skills sets must be partnered with the proven ability to work as a collaborative member of the educational team.

Individuals interested in a rewarding career as an educational interpreter will find that current national and states efforts are defining professional standards for educational interpreters. More than half of the states now require demonstrated competencies on a standardized testing system, and the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (2006) has recommended a baccalaureate degree be required of interpreters working in K-12 environments.

Is educational interpreting for you?

Quote: I can go anywhere. Where do I work? You name it! Courts, hospitals, corporations, theaters, museums, schools and colleges, television studios, nursing homes...even Disney World! Anywhere people need to communicate is where my job takes me.

Quote: It's something new everyday! There is a national shortage of interpreters. What does this mean for me? I always have enough work, and my work is well paid. I can set my own hours, and choose whether to work alone or on a team. Someday soon I plan to start my own interpreting business.

Quote: Lifetime of Learning. Discover Sign Language Interpreting!

Quote: Interpreting is challenging, stimulating work! There are hundreds of different specializations for interpreters. You can choose to specialize in an area that interests you.

Quote: Interpreting makes a world of difference! There are 130 interpreting programs in colleges and universities across the United States providing coursework in American Sign Language and interpreting.