Interpretation & Translation Services

Melissa Skousen, Coordinator

mskousen@dsdmail.net

801-402-5541

Mission

To communicate with and engage parents in their student's educational process and expectations that allows the family to speak the other language, other than English.

Vision

To foster communication with understanding, between cultures and across languages.

OBJECTIVES:

  • Provide oral interpretations between parents, teacher/administrator.

  • Provide written translations of school/district documents.

  • Review and update previous written translations saved on database.

  • Inform non-English speaking parents about their student's achievement and needs.

  • Facilitate knowledge of school curriculum/programs/legal policies to non-English speaking parents.

  • Respond to emergency oral interpretations/written translations.

  • Provide parent interpretation at public meetings and involve them through written translations of surveys, school community council, and other activities or needs.

  • Facilitate understanding among the different cultures and languages involved in the district.

SERVICES:

  • Oral interpretation in Spanish and other languages for meetings, information, and discussions involving the student of non-English speaking parent.

  • Provide students/family/district with conflict resolution/mediation, through oral interpretation.

  • Training for new interpreters through Canvas called Providing School Services Via Interpreters and teach the skills needed to interpret effectively.

  • Written translations of student foreign transcript for accreditation.

  • Written translations of documents for DSD policies, fee waivers, 504 & IEP documents, disciplinary documents, registration or enrollment materials, etc.

WRITTEN Translation vs. ORAL Interpretation

WRITTEN translation focuses on written content. It requires a high level of accuracy and can take time to produce.

ORAL interpretation deals with the spoken word and is needed immediately. It prioritizes understanding and communication over perfection.