Interpreters-Trans (Vietnamese, Nepali, Burmes, French Dari/Pashto - ARP Fund

Summary:

The Bilingual Interpreter/Translators’ primary function is to bridge communication gap between district/school personnel and individuals (primarily parents and guardians of students) using a language other than English.  Interpreting is the process of ensuring effective oral communication between individuals using multiple languages. Translation is the process by which written documents are transferred from one language to another.

 This position works collaboratively with Title I school-based staff to provide information to parents, guardians, community members and other stakeholders regarding curriculum, assessment, school and district performance, policies and procedures in a language that they can understand. This person may provide interpretation for family events, conferences, intervention meetings, etc. This person will also translate letters, forms, newsletters, etc. that are not provided by the district in languages other than English. The Bilingual Interpreter/Translator may be required to attend school-based meetings after school or weekends and/or make home visits with school-based personnel.

 This position must be able to provide accurate information to district staff, community members and parents. This position must be able to handle confidential information appropriately.  The Bilingual Interpreter/Translator may be the first contact a parent has with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System.  It is essential that this position be service-oriented and open to linguistically and culturally diverse populations.  This position delivers key student, parent and administrative support to promote strong academic achievement and family/community involvement in the school.

Essential Duties:

• Works with Title I school personnel to promote an understanding of the value of parent/school partnerships and assist them with building effective partnerships with EL families.
• Helps parents and families to understand curriculum standards and assessments as related to EL education
• Communicates with parents and families through a variety of means (community and school-based meetings, school website, flyers, etc.) to ensure EL parents and families are informed of opportunities to engage with their child’s school
• Conducts or assists with home visits to support EL student attendance and resolution of home/school conflicts
• Answers phone calls and provides information to community members, parents and school staff
• Interprets at intervention and IEP meetings, parent conferences, parent meetings and individual student assessments
• Provides orientation for families of non-English speaking children
• Translates district and/or school-based documents (letters, forms, newsletters, website information, etc.)
• Uses technology where appropriate, such as microphones, headphones, telephone conferencing
• Edits and proofreads text accurately to reflect language
• Uses dictionaries and glossaries for reference
• Follows ethical codes that protect the confidentiality of information and maintains impartial
• Identifies and resolves conflicts related to the meaning of words, concepts, practices, or behaviors
• Educates families and school staff regarding the roles and functions of educational interpreters
• Assists with the Parent Phone line as assigned
• Manages work schedule to meet the interpreting and translating demands
• Supports the initial registration process by assisting families with limited English proficiency (LEP) in enrolling their child(ren) through the CMS International Center
• Administers and proctors WIDA Screener testing in the CMS International Center
• Attends a wide variety of meetings, community meetings, hearings, and/or interviews for the purpose of serving as an interpreter of conversations
• Attends staff and other district meetings as necessary
• Works cooperatively and collaboratively as a team member using good interpersonal relationship and communication skills
• Logs information regarding calls received and maintains detailed and accurate records on designated forms
• Performs related duties as assigned

Education and Experience:
Minimum

• Bilingual in Spanish/Other Language
• Two years of higher education or an Associate degree from an accredited institution of higher learning with an emphasis on Education, Sociology or Psychology and
• Two years of successful experience in a related professional or educational setting

Desirable

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Additional specialized training or education in working with students and families
• Experience training adults on effective engagement strategies

Licensing / Certification Requirements: N/A