Durango 9-R contracts with several people and a few businesses to provide these services. At this point in time, this is a limited resource but such an important one. You might have a Zoom or in-person conference with a parent/family who speaks another language or you might be hosting a school-wide parent event and know that families who speak another language need an interpreter. For scenarios like these, in which you want to ensure language accessibility for parents, a district-contracted interpreter (oral) is appropriate. Similarly, if there is an official or legal written communication such as an IEP, using a district-contracted translator (written) is an important choice.
Why Use a District Interpreter or Translator?
- They have demonstrated their proficiency in both languages on 3rd party assessments
- and/or have provided proof of certification as a trained interpreter or translator.
- Having a live person present to interpret and bridge between languages and cultures
- can put a family more at ease and ensure better communication about important topics.
- A live interpreter can see shared documents and track nonverbal communication in a
- way that a phone interpreter cannot.
- For school-wide meetings, arranging to have an interpreter present sends a message
- that we value the participation of families who speak languages other than English.
- For sensitive, serious or official written communications, using a trained translator
- (written) ensures accuracy in a way that DeepL cannot.
What Are Some Down Sides?
- Requires advance notice. Please reach out as soon as you schedule the meeting or event.
- Since this is a costly service and the number of people available is limited, we will typically only approve requests that are appropriate uses of this resource (official/sensitive/serious).
- We have a limited number of contracted interpreters and translators available at this time. While we will do our best to meet appropriate requests, we can not guarantee that we’ll find someone for the date and time you’ve requested. If not, we’ll work with you to explore other options.
How Can I Request a District Interpreter or Translator?
Your building/department leader or administrative assistant can submit a request for a district
interpreter or translator. If you’re setting up a Zoom meeting with an interpreter, this Quick video
tutorial or written instructions will help you get started. Quick video