K-12 School ASL Interpreter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving landscape of education, the role of K-12 School ASL Interpreters is gaining significant attention.

As inclusivity and diversity continue to be prioritized, the need for skilled interpreters who can bridge the gap between hearing and Deaf students is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a K-12 School ASL Interpreter?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A school administrator outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of ASL interpretation in a school setting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable K-12 School ASL Interpreter job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or school career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Duties and Responsibilities

K-12 School ASL Interpreters facilitate communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing students and others in the educational environment.

They are primarily responsible for translating spoken language into American Sign Language (ASL) and vice versa.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Facilitating effective communication between students with hearing impairments and their peers, teachers, and other school staff
• Interpreting spoken language into sign language and sign language into spoken language during various school settings including classroom instructions, assemblies, meetings, and extracurricular activities
• Adapting interpretation to match the age and understanding level of the student
• Pre-teaching or reviewing content to ensure the student’s understanding of the material
• Assisting in developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with hearing impairments
• Working closely with teachers and other school staff to promote an inclusive learning environment
• Maintaining confidentiality and respecting the privacy of all students
• Staying updated with new signs and interpretation techniques
• Following professional and ethical standards of interpreting, and adhering to school policies and procedures

 

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated K-12 School ASL Interpreter to facilitate communication between students who are deaf or hard of hearing and their hearing peers, teachers, and other school staff.

The interpreter will be responsible for accurately interpreting academic and social information, adhering to the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct.

Our ideal candidate is proficient in American Sign Language (ASL), has a strong understanding of educational vocabulary, and is passionate about creating an inclusive learning environment for all students.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide sign language interpretation for deaf or hard of hearing students in various educational settings
• Interpret spoken language into sign language and sign language into spoken language
• Facilitate communication between students, teachers, staff, and parents when required
• Translate educational materials into ASL
• Maintain confidential student information
• Collaborate with teachers and special education staff to facilitate student learning and social interaction
• Participate in IEP meetings, parent-teacher conferences, and other meetings as required
• Keep up-to-date with language trends and developments to ensure interpretation accuracy

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an ASL interpreter, preferably in an educational setting
• National Interpreter Certification (NIC) or similar certification
• Excellent fluency in American Sign Language and English
• Strong understanding of educational vocabulary and concepts
• Ability to interpret in various modes (ASL, PSE, MCE)
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of Deaf culture and the ethical considerations of interpreting
• High school diploma; degree in Sign Language Interpreting or related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: K-12 School ASL Interpreter
• Work Environment: School setting. May involve moving between classrooms and school buildings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Special Education Director or School Principal.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and school district considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $60,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, certification documents, and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a K-12 School ASL Interpreter Do?

A K-12 School ASL Interpreter works in elementary, middle, or high school settings, serving as a communication link between deaf or hard of hearing students and others in the educational environment.

They interpret spoken language into American Sign Language (ASL) and vice versa, ensuring that students have equal access to information and can fully participate in classroom activities and discussions.

These interpreters often assist in one-on-one or group settings, helping students understand lessons, instructions, and assignments.

They may also interpret for school meetings, extracurricular activities, or parent-teacher conferences.

In addition, K-12 School ASL Interpreters often work collaboratively with teachers and other school staff to address individual student needs and ensure that the educational environment is inclusive and supportive for all students.

Moreover, they may provide guidance on deaf culture to teachers and students, fostering understanding and respect within the school community.

 

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Qualifications and Skills

A qualified K-12 School ASL Interpreter should possess a combination of technical skills, soft skills, and educational knowledge to effectively facilitate communication between deaf or hard-of-hearing students and others in the school environment, such as:

• Proficiency in American Sign Language and the ability to interpret it accurately in a classroom setting.
• Understanding of K-12 educational concepts and terminology to ensure accurate interpretation of classroom instruction and discussions.
• Excellent listening and communication skills to accurately interpret spoken language into sign language and vice versa.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work closely with students, teachers, and other school staff, fostering an inclusive environment for all students.
• Patience and sensitivity towards the needs and feelings of students, providing support where necessary and maintaining confidentiality.
• Awareness of cultural diversity and respect for differences, as they may work with students from various backgrounds and with different learning needs.
• Physical stamina to stand or sit for extended periods, as well as dexterity to perform sign language.
• Problem-solving skills to adapt to varying communication needs and classroom situations.

 

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Experience Requirements

K-12 School ASL Interpreters typically have a bachelor’s degree in a related field like Deaf Studies or American Sign Language.

They often gain experience through internships or part-time roles in deaf education or sign language interpreting while studying.

Candidates seeking for entry-level positions usually have 1 to 2 years of experience interpreting ASL, either obtained in school or through volunteer experiences in the community.

Experienced ASL interpreters, with more than 3 years of experience, have usually honed their skills in a variety of settings, such as classrooms, school events, or individual student sessions.

They may also have obtained further certifications, like the National Interpreter Certification (NIC) or the Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA).

Those with 5 years of experience or more often have expertise in specific educational subjects or fields, like science or literature.

They may also have experience in handling special needs students or those with additional communication disorders.

These seasoned interpreters may be ready for leadership roles, such as mentoring new interpreters or leading interpreting teams.

 

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Education and Training Requirements

K-12 School ASL Interpreters typically must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in American Sign Language (ASL) or a related field such as deaf education or interpreter training.

They should have a strong background in ASL, English, and the linguistics of both languages.

Being bilingual is a key requirement for this role.

Additionally, they must have a strong understanding of education concepts and language used in a K-12 school setting to be able to interpret effectively between teachers, students, and parents.

Most states require ASL Interpreters to be nationally certified.

The Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) offers certification exams that include a demonstration of interpreting skills and a multiple-choice test on ethics and professional practices.

Some states may have additional licensing requirements for interpreters working in public schools, which may include a state-specific certification or endorsement.

Continuing education is crucial for ASL Interpreters in order to stay updated with evolving languages and educational practices.

This can be accomplished through workshops, classes, or additional certifications.

Experience working with children and understanding their communication needs is also beneficial for ASL Interpreters in a K-12 school setting.

 

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Salary Expectations

A K-12 School ASL Interpreter earns an average salary of $46,000 (USD) per year.

The salary can greatly vary based on factors such as the interpreter’s years of experience, the complexity of the assignment, and the location of the school.

 

K-12 School ASL Interpreter Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a K-12 School ASL Interpreter need?

K-12 School ASL Interpreters should have a bachelor’s degree in American Sign Language or a related field.

Furthermore, they must be certified by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID), or a similar nationally recognized certifying body.

Experience working with children in a K-12 educational setting is also beneficial.

 

What skills are important for a K-12 School ASL Interpreter?

K-12 School ASL Interpreters should have excellent sign language skills, including the ability to translate spoken language into sign language and vice versa.

They should also have a strong understanding of Deaf culture and etiquette.

Communication, patience, and sensitivity are important for working with students who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Interpreters also need the ability to adapt quickly, as they may need to interpret for various grade levels and subjects.

 

What are the daily duties of a K-12 School ASL Interpreter?

A K-12 School ASL Interpreter’s daily duties often include interpreting classroom instruction, student responses, and school-related activities for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

They may also assist students with assignments and exams, provide tutoring in ASL, and facilitate communication between students, their peers, and school staff.

They may also attend meetings with parents and teachers to discuss student progress.

 

What qualities make a good K-12 School ASL Interpreter?

A good K-12 School ASL Interpreter is patient, flexible, and empathetic.

They must be able to interpret complex information accurately and in a way that is age-appropriate.

They should be dedicated to promoting an inclusive learning environment and advocating for students who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Good interpreters also continuously improve their skills and keep up-to-date with changes in sign language and educational practices.

 

Is it difficult to hire K-12 School ASL Interpreters?

Hiring K-12 School ASL Interpreters can be challenging due to the specific skills and qualifications needed for the role.

There is also a nationwide shortage of qualified interpreters, making it a competitive field.

Schools may need to offer competitive compensation packages, professional development opportunities, and supportive work environments to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it truly means to be a K-12 School ASL Interpreter.

And guess what?

It’s not just about interpreting American Sign Language.

It’s about bridging the communication gap, one sign at a time.

With our go-to K-12 School ASL Interpreter job description template and real-life examples, you’re well-prepared to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to creating precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every sign you interpret contributes to a larger narrative.

Let’s create that narrative. Together.

How to Become a K-12 School ASL Interpreter (Complete Guide)

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