Visual Language Interpreter

Under the direction of the Director of Instruction, Inclusive Education or designate, the primary role of the Visual Language Interpreter is to facilitate communication between individuals who do not share a common language. This includes interpreting for Deaf, deaf and hard of hearing student(s) and their hearing peers, classroom teachers, parents/caregivers, school staff, and administrators.

Interpretation services are provided in classroom settings as well as during school activities such as meetings, assemblies, field trips, athletic teams, clubs, and other educational experiences.

This is a district-based position. As such, interpreters may be assigned to one or more school sites and should expect to travel between locations based on where student support needs arise.

Employees in this role also support student learning by assisting individuals or small groups with a variety of tasks. The position requires specialized skills to effectively support students who are deaf or hard of hearing.

This work demands a high degree of initiative, emotional regulation, empathy, and an understanding of the diverse and complex needs of students. The interpreter must exercise sound judgment in responding to a variety of situations while working under the direction of classroom teacher(s) and District Deaf & Hard of Hearing Teacher (DDHHT) and supervised by the Director of Instruction, Inclusive Education or designate.

• Provide interpreting services to facilitate communication between students, peers, teachers, staff, and families, using appropriate modalities (e.g., ASL, contact signing, spoken language) as outlined in the student's IEP
• Support student learning and participation by working collaboratively with the educational team
• Consult regularly with DTDHH and subject teachers to support achievement of learning goals and reinforce concepts and vocabulary
• Prepare for interpreting by reviewing course materials, technical language, and instructional approaches
• Promote student independence and understanding of the interpreter's role
• Support staff understanding of the interpreter's role and Deaf culture
• Interpret assessments, including test questions and student responses, as required
• Implement and support Individual Education Plans (IEPs), personal care plans, and other individualized programs
• Provide insight into cultural and linguistic factors affecting student learning and behaviour
• Maintain and manage amplification and assistive equipment
• Complete required documentation and adhere to district policies, procedures, and professional standards

• Participate in relevant professional development and team meetings
• Other related duties as assigned

• Grade 12 graduation
• ASL–English interpreting Diploma from a recognized post-secondary institution
• Active membership in WAVLI (Westcoast Association of Visual Language Interpreters) or meets eligibility criteria for membership
• Fluency in ASL, with ability to adapt to a range of signing styles and communication needs
• Experience working with individuals with disabilities and diverse abilities;
• Minimum one year of interpreting experience with children or youth in educational or community settings
• Knowledge of child development (educational, physical, social, emotional) and the impact of hearing loss on learning
• Understanding of language development and communication needs of deaf and hard of hearing students
• Knowledge of educational practices, inclusive supports, and the role of interpreters within a school team
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to build trust and collaborate effectively
• Ability to maintain records and collect/monitor student-related data
• Proficiency with…