Language Link: Live Phone Interpreters
Occasionally, you need to make an important parent phone call immediately and need an interpreter ASAP. Durango School District 9-R contracts with Language Link to provide immediate phone interpretation services.
Why Use Language Link?
- It ensures that you and the family member are fully understanding one another when talking about a serious, sensitive, or official issue.
- A two-way phone conversation allows the family to ask questions and clarify messages.
- Language Link interpreters are always immediately available.
- It’s actually pretty easy to use, although you might feel nervous the first time.
What Are Some Down Sides?
- The phone number Language Link uses will not indicate that the call is coming from the school. Consider a quick text message to let a parent know to answer.
- The Language Link interpreter won’t know all of the acronyms and education-ese we sometimes use. Choose language that increases the clarity of your message.
- It costs the district 60￠ per minute. Please use this resource judiciously.
How Can I Use Language Link?
You can find district-specific instructions at this link and here is a quick start video tutorial.One final tip for success: Have a short message in mind in case you reach the family’s voicemail.