Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students 101

And the Interpreters that come with them

Who is that person in my classroom?

Our official title-”Educational Sign Language Interpreter I, II, or III.”

In KY interpreters must be licensed.

Interpreters must be certified or have graduated from an Interpreter Training Program and be working toward certification.

We follow a Code of Professional Conduct

What to expect from an Educational Interpreter

• Questions (lessons, fieldtrips, etc.)• Two way communication-everything that is said in the

classroom or around the D/HH student will be signed to them and everything that is said or “signed” by the student will be said “voiced” by the interpreter (everything means-phone ringing, announcements, emergency alarms, bodily noises, computer noises, nice, and not so nice things)

• Things that are interpreted are kept confidential although things may be shared with the educational team when appropriate.

Expectations Continued

• We may move around to make sure the student can see both of us in the same sight line.

• Asking for repeating or rephrasing• Signing even after you have stopped talking due

to the difference in English and Sign Language• The interpreter will ask for a copy of any handout

or book that is being used.• The interpreter will behave differently depending

on the grade level of the child.

What not to expect from an Educational Interpreter

• Disciplining the children

• Teaching organized activities

• Making copies or grading papers

• Calling parents

I have an Interpreter, now what?

• Carry on as normal with a few modifications.• The interpreter is there for both you and the student.• Do not stand or walk in front of interpreter• Make eye contact and speak directly to D/HH child• To get D/HH child’s attention tap lightly on the shoulder,

floor, desk, or table. You can also flash the lights.• If you show videos, please make sure they are Closed

Captioned if possible.• If you are not sure, just ask the interpreter - they don’t

bite.

Educational Team

• Includes: Parents and ALL educational staff that work with the child.

• Means: Working together to ensure the success of EVERY child.

What you need to know about D/HH Kids

• Deaf/Hard of Hearing is politically correct

• Reading and writing skills are usually 2-3 years delayed

• Visual supports and extended response time are crucial

• Eyes are muscles and need small breaks

• If the student is ignoring the interpreter, he is ignoring YOU!

* D/HH students use either American Sign Language, Signed English (or its equivalent), or are Oral

* D/HH students use technology such as a hearing aid, cochlear implant, and/or a portable or classroom FM system to assist in auditory clarity.

• D/HH students usually go to Speech 1-2 times a week for 30 minutes.

• Just as with any student, don’t assume the student has general knowledge. A lot of general knowledge is picked up through HEARING it repeatedly.

• Most D/HH student’s parents do not know any Sign Language and have limited communication with their children.

Deaf culture

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