QUALIFICATIONS:

• Current American Sign Language Certification
• Proficiency in American Sign Language
• High School Diploma or GED required 
• Para Certificate or Post-Secondary Education preferred 
• Experience in a K-12 education system is preferred
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the District may find appropriate and acceptable

REPORTS TO: 

Building principal

JOB GOALS:  

The Sign Language Interpreter provides communication access for students who are deaf or hard of hearing. This role involves interpreting classroom instruction, facilitating communication between students and teachers, and supporting the educational development of students in compliance with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

 The sign language interpreter’s primary responsibility is to interpret between spoken English and American Sign Language (ASL; or another signed visual system) at a fluent rate.  Additional essential functions and primary responsibilities may include the following (specific position requirements will vary depending on the needs of the student)

• Provide accurate and effective sign language interpretation for classroom instruction, meetings, and school activities. 
• Confer and plan with the educational team to prepare for interpreting.
• Assist with classroom modifications when appropriate, as determined by the student’s IEP, educational team, or in consultation with other direct service personnel
• Facilitate communication between students, educators, and peers to ensure understanding and participation.
• Work closely with special education staff, general education teachers, and other support personnel to adapt instructional materials and methods to meet the needs of students.
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to the development of appropriate communication strategies.
• Assist in developing a positive, inclusive environment that promotes student engagement and success.
• Stay updated on best practices in sign language interpretation and special education.
• Maintain accurate records of services provided and contribute to documentation for IEPs and progress reports.
• May support in the transition of students on and off the bus, as well as when needed riding the bus to support students based on student needs.  All personnel supporting students with individual educational plans should anticipate supporting occasional and up to consistent bus riding and must complete bus rider training (to be provided upon hire). 
• Create and maintain positive working relationships with the school community, students, and other employees.
• May interpret for school-sponsored functions outside of the classroom during regularly scheduled hours.
• Attends work on a prompt and regular basis 
• Maintain confidentiality 
• Other duties as assigned. 

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:  175 days + up to 2 additional days of in-service = 177 days. Salary and calendar year to be evaluated in accordance with the Negotiated Agreement between the Iowa City Education Association and the Iowa City Community School District.   

EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the District’s policy on Evaluation, State Statute, and any applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement.