Educational Sign Language Interpreter

Position Type: Support Staff / Hourly

Location: Newcastle High School

Reports To: Building Principal / Special Education Director

Hourly Rate: Commensurate with experience and certification

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and skilled Educational Sign Language Interpreter to join our support staff. The primary role of this position is to facilitate communication between deaf and hard-of-hearing students, their hearing peers, teachers, and other school personnel. The interpreter will ensure students have equal access to the educational curriculum and school-related activities.

Key Responsibilities

Interpretation & Transliteration: Provide expressive and voice interpreting for students in classrooms, assemblies, counseling sessions, and other school-sanctioned events.
Student Support: Assist students in understanding classroom instructions and routines while fostering their independence and self-advocacy.
Collaboration: Work closely with general education teachers, special education teachers, and the IEP (Individualized Education Program) team to support the student's educational goals.
Preparation: Review classroom materials and lesson plans in advance to ensure accurate and effective interpretation of subject-specific vocabulary.
Professionalism & Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student records and performance, adhering to the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct and FERPA regulations.
Additional Duties: When not actively interpreting, perform other appropriate educational support duties as assigned by the teacher or administration.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent (Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Deaf Education, ASL, or Interpreting preferred).
Certification: Must hold or be eligible for state interpreting credentials (e.g., a passing score on the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment).
Skills: Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) and spoken English; strong understanding of Deaf culture.
Experience: Previous experience working with children or in an educational setting is highly preferred.
Clearances: Must pass a comprehensive criminal background check and standard employment screenings.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand, sit, and use hands/arms continuously for extended periods.
Ability to move around the classroom and school campus effectively.

Notice of Non-Discrimination / Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Newcastle Public Schools is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, or genetic information in its employment practices, educational programs, or activities.