JOB TITLE: Interpreter/Tutor, Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HOH) Program
DESCRIPTION OF BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
To perform specialized duties in interpreting classroom lectures, general hearing classroom instruction, formal conversation, and instructional support for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HOH) students in the Department of Special Education. This job class exercises independent judgment and responsibility for the accurate interpretation of both formal and informal classroom/school instruction and activities. This job class provides interpretation by use of various modes of communication including, but not limited to, PSE, ASL, SEE II, finger spelling and gestures as requried. Employees in this classification receive general supervision from a school site administrator and work on a day-to-day basis with a certificated teacher within a well defined framework of policies and procedures.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Performs specialized duties requiring the application of and proficiency in the appropriate mode of communication, adhering to student's needs
Interprets mainstream and self-contained classroom lectures, group discussions, films, video, audio recordings, guest speakers, informal conversation, telephone calls, general classroom instruction, and other verbal communications
May interpret school performances and assemblies, after school sports activities, job coaching, interviews, and various meetings relating to student and staff needs
Assists students in learning appropriate living/social skills and behavior such as safety procedures, survival, communication skills, independence training, and decision-making abilities necessary for regular classroom instruction and life skills
Informs students and mainstream staff in the appropriate use of interpreting services
Serves as a positive liaison between mainstream and special education staff
Tutors and assists students individually or in groups in academic or elective subject mainstream classes; tutors in self-contained classrooms under supervision
Under direction of a certificated teacher in a self-contained classroom, prepares, designs, and develops instructional materials, classroom work areas, exhibits, and displays
Orients substitute teachers and interpreters in classroom procedures, and individual student needs
Assists in ordering appropriate instructional materials for students
May operate specialized communications equipment; perform routine clerical duties including word processing, duplicating, collating, filing, taking attendance, grading papers, and related duties
Performs other related duties as required.
EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS
In addition to the ability to pass the County Office of Education Interpreting Sign Language Proficiency Examination and written skills tests.
Knowledge of:
the implications of behavioral, learning, and social challenges related deafness within an educational program and environment
ethical responsibilities of interpreters
pertinent academic subjects areas as assigned
basic child guidance principles and effective behavior management techniques
proper English usage, grammar, and spelling
word processing and basic office equipment and procedures
specialized deaf and hard of hearing equipment
effective record-keeping methods and techniques
Ability to:
effectively and accurately interpret classroom lectures, videos, and other related activities using sign language and sign to voice skills
work in a mainstream environment with a group of interpreters using team and/or alternating partnership strategies as needed
communicate and work with students in a professional manner that gains their trust and meets their level of understanding
maintain confidentiality of students, staff, and the program
effectively tutor students in assigned math, english, science, and academic subject areas ranging for elementary and secondary level students
analyze situations accurately and adopt effective course of action using effective behavior management techniques
understand the basic personal and social problems associated with the student's age group and effectively relate to these needs
function in a team environment
maintain effectiveness under stressful situations
establish and maintain effective work relationships with direct relationships
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Generally, the required knowledge and abilities will have been acquired through completion of an interpreter training program equivalent to an associate's degree with coursework in sign language, psychology of deafness or a related field and at least one year of experience as an interpreter or any other combination of education and experience that could provide for the required knowledge and abilities.
Date: September 12, 1984
Revised: June 24, 1995, April
5, 1993, April 27, 1993, August 27, 1998