more interpreter issues...UGH! - Page 2

Anij · 03-26-2011, 02:42 AM

As others stated - at any IEP meetings, or meetings discussing your interpreter's performance you are ENTITLED to have an independent fully certified interpreter for YOU at that meeting ... your school interpreter should NOT be the one interpreting at either of these - make sure you clearly state that you require them to hire a certified/licensed interpreter (not the school interpreter, or someone who "knows ASL" etc) for all meetings.

Also - is there any way that either of your parents could "randomly" drop in one day and observe a few of your classes (ie how the interpreter is working etc) ... I know it might mean they have to take some time off work - but honestly, if they happened to quietly be sitting at the back of one of your classes before it started and just "observe" perhaps they'd see her being a lousy terp.

Also - as Reba pointed out , it's not the interpreters JOB to tell you if you're paying attention "properly" ... it's their job to interpret. PERIOD. When I'm taking university classes, I don't spend the whole time with my eyes glued to my interpreters, I have to use a lot of peripheral vision at times to follow things that are going on (writing on the board/overheads etc) ... my interpreters keep interpreting even if I look down to write something, close my eyes for a second (watching "everything" as carefully as we do can get visually exhausting, sometimes you need a mini-break).

k-12 interpreters seem to be under some utter delusion that it's not only their job to interpret, but also to be "parent","hall monitor","life judge" etc ... but it's NOT.

Frankly the clear message needs to be sent my your parents and yourself (preferably in writing (sending multiple copies to the interpreter, your teachers, the principal and the school board office) that your interpreter's JOB is strictly to INTERPRET THE ENTIRE CONTENT OF THE CLASS regardless of if you are "paying attention" or not. They INTERPRET, and ONLY interpret. It is NOT they're job, nor do they have parental consent to comment on your "behaviour" in any way shape or form.

It's also a good idea for it to be put in writing as a "reminder" that Hoh and Deaf individuals utilize our peripheral vision significantly more than hearing people - as such we do not have to "stare directly at an interpreter" at all times to see what they are signing.

I'd think (hope) that a polite but sternly worded letter from your parents and yourself sent to "all related parties" (ie the 'terp, your teachers, the DHH coordinator, the principal etc) would go a long way in terms of helping the situation. As would a "drop in" by your parents (if they're legally allowed to do so).

**Reba** · 03-26-2011, 07:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anij

...As would a "drop in" by your parents (if they're legally allowed to do so).

Not only parents but taxpayers are allowed to observe public school classrooms. They do have to follow the proper procedures (mostly for security reasons), and can't just "drop in." They have to make arrangements with the front office, and check in thru there.

The problem with the parents or another terp observing the classroom is that the interpreter will be aware of their presence and probably be on her best behavior for them.

Anij · 03-26-2011, 10:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reba

Not only parents but taxpayers are allowed to observe public school classrooms. They do have to follow the proper procedures (mostly for security reasons), and can't just "drop in." They have to make arrangements with the front office, and check in thru there.

The problem with the parents or another terp observing the classroom is that the interpreter will be aware of their presence and probably be on her best behavior for them.

They might be on their best behaviour ...however they'll also hopefully get the message that "they're being watched" (not in a threatening way) and someone could at 'any time' drop in to observe.... they might be observing the class, or the teacher, or a student or her. The hope being that she'll just have to in general do a 'proper job' or she might loose said job.

In combination with a "global" (distributed to multiple persons) letter it might help.

I found that most, if not all of my college profs had no clue what the "job of the interpreter was" until they received an introductory letter when I enrolled in the classes requesting interpreter support. I'm guessing that it might be even "worse" in the k-12 education system where teachers would quite easily think that "EAs" (educational assistants) and interpreters have the "same role" in checking the behaviour etc of the student ... which is (as WE all know) NOT the case....interpreters INTERPRET.PERIOD. They do not get involved with my/our personal life, they don't comment on my/our behaviour... they interpret in a professional manner (and if we happen to be friends and can balance that relationship properly - great)

Arbayong · 03-26-2011, 02:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Juli-terp-to-be

I wonder....is there anyway to for someone to video her doing these things? Or not as the case my be. lol I know that cell phone use is not allowed. But if you, or a friend of yours is secretly taping her, you then have undeniable proof of this person not fulfilling her contract.

such secret taping, never mind it breaches school regulations, may never earn the sympathy of most teachers cos if the video testimony is admitted, it will open the floodgates for students to secrete cameras into class whenever there is a minor problem with a teacher or interpreter.
At least thats how it will be handled in my part of the world.

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-26-2011, 09:18 PM

okay i seen alot about the taping idea and the parents or taxpayer dropping in classes.

First off, the special education supervisor HAS came into one of my classes to observe my interpreter, at a random time. and my interpreter has behaved perfectly for her because the special education supervisor is her boss. and anytime somebody (whose like the most important person in the school) drops into my classroom, she will be on her behavior and act like what an interpreter will do. So, even if my parents did came in, my interpreter will act like that. The only time my interpreter isn't behaving as a real interpreter would is when shes around people who doesn't really care what she do, aka, my teachers. My teachers doesn't really know what interpreters are suppose to do so they don't really worry about it, or actually paying attention to what shes doing. They're mostly focusing on teaching the class (well, duh lol).

2ndly, I'm not sure about the taping idea. My parents brought it up. But my school is really strict about cellphones in class. My school has been keeping a really close eye on who is using cellphones in school. Anybody whose texting in class or playing on their phone would get a Saturday's school detention. But would it be worth the risk to get into trouble just for one lousy interpreter? not sure.

But i swear, this week, if my interpreter is not going to be treating me right in a respectful way, i'm not going to be nice about this. Because i have had enough of her. I don't like the way how she yells at me when I'm "falling asleep" in class or how i'm not "doing" my homework. She should mind her own business. And besides, my actions are my own responsibilities. Whatever I did wrong, the teacher will discipline me, or my parents. not my interpreter. The school says that the only reason why me and her are acting like this is because we're like: "sisters". Sisters, really? NO. I have a real sister. my interpreter is NOT my sister. Sure i mean I had her since the 6th grade (middle school) up to this year. But jeesh, i never thought of her as my sister.

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-26-2011, 09:24 PM

Oh I also forgot to mention one thing about my interpreter.

My dad is friends with her on facebook. My interpreter doesn't add high school students on her facebook because we're still a minor. Anyways, after my mom confronted her on the phone last week, My interpreter posted a status on faceook and it showed up into my dad's newsfeed. He said that it went something like this::

"Bad day at school, things got worse afterwards. I need a beer."

it sounds like her too. Because she's always telling me that whenever she isn't at work, shes out partying, drinking. If its not that, then shes complaining about how she had to go to bed at 3 in the morning and then had to get up at 5 with little amount of sleep because she couldn't sleep very well. She always says that. Shes always complaining about how the track coaches are mean to her and how she has to do her college online homework, about working at her 2nd job, etc. I mean, as an adult, they should learn how to deal with it (especially my interpreter) and figure out how to solve their own problems for themselves instead of complaining about it and doing nothing. That, personally, is my own opinion.

**Reba** · 03-26-2011, 09:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coolgirlspyer90

...2ndly, I'm not sure about the taping idea...

I would talk to a lawyer before doing any recording. I don't think that's a good idea. It can backfire on you.

Quote:

...The school says that the only reason why me and her are acting like this is because we're like: "sisters". Sisters, really? NO. I have a real sister. my interpreter is NOT my sister. Sure i mean I had her since the 6th grade (middle school) up to this year. But jeesh, i never thought of her as my sister.

Now I'm beginning to worry about the entire administration of your school. What a bizarre statement. That certainly isn't a professional viewpoint.

The interpreter is not your sister.

The teacher is not your mother.

The principal is not your grandmother.

Talk about a patronizing attitude! (Although I can kind of see the analogy of the school staff to a dysfunctional family.)

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-26-2011, 09:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Reba

I would talk to a lawyer before doing any recording. I don't think that's a good idea. It can backfire on you.

Now I'm beginning to worry about the entire administration of your school. What a bizarre statement. That certainly isn't a professional viewpoint.

The interpreter is not your sister.

The teacher is not your mother.

The principal is not your grandmother.

Talk about a patronizing attitude! (Although I can kind of see the analogy of the school staff to a dysfunctional family.)

yep, honestly, i don't know how many times that i want to get a new interpreter because of how much i had to put up with her. They're not really getting the picture. All they're saying is because of her signed contract and because how we're "sisters" and such. I mean, I don't know what else to do. Is there any ADA proof to show them that, and get serious about this? because from what i heard from the school after talking about it in a mature way, they're kind of bluffing. They say that they want to have a meeting so that way we can discuss of what I deserve to have from my interpreter. But i mean it isn't making the cut. What i need is a new interpreter. Not the same one. Because if i have the same one, theres going to be more drama, more pressure, and more stress. and possibly be treating me the same as before.

Anij · 03-27-2011, 12:10 AM

I would NOT suggest recording her - it's not worth it, will likely cause more harm than good, and there are better ways to deal with this.

Another thing that would be a HUGE help is for your parents to arrange a meeting at the school with ALL of your teachers present, as well as the principal your SE supervisor you, your parents, and an independently hired certified interpreter. The sole purpose of the meeting being to make sure that the teachers are absolutely positively aware of what the interpreter SHOULD be doing (regardless of you YOU are doing). It might also be helpful to call in interpreter agency and ask if they have anyone who can do some sort of "interpreter orientations" at the meeting (even if you have to pay for it yourself - it's worth it AND you'll be helping any Hoh/Deaf students who come after you!!).

Most teachers don't understand the role of an interpreter - they understand the role of a "signing educational assistant" (they sign, they deal with behaviour issues, and basically "get involved" with what the student is or is not doing). An interpreter on the other hand (as we know) is there to interpret the spoken and auditory information in the class into ASL, and then (if needed) voice for the Hoh/Deaf/SI person - they aren't your "buddy" , they aren't you "mother/father", they aren't your "behaviour monitor - they provide ASL/English and English/ASL interpretation. (Outside of class, if you want to be friends, all the power to you... but while she's functioning as your interpreter she's required to be absolutely professional. period.)

I'd really suggest talking to your parents about writing the letter I mentioned previously -but also having a formal meeting with all your teachers etc and a independently hired interpreter so that once and for all the "role of your interpreter" can be made crystal clear to the teachers, the SE supervisor (who could use an unbiased reminder from someone like an interpreter orientation person from an agency - or university Disability Services Program)

The best way to deal with on YOUR end is to be "very professional" - by which I mean politely but firmly state at the beginning of each class that you are requesting that the entire content of the class be interpreted - that she is to continue interpreting if you glance away (because you can see using your peripheral vision). Even if she thinks that you "appear to not be paying attention - or even fallen asleep" SHE is to continue interpreting in a professional manner - just like she would do for an adult student taking a university course.

Repeat this EACH class (yeah, it's going to get annoying) so that she understands CLEARLY what you are requiring of her for each and every class.

If you speak - make sure that you say it in a confident (but not rude) voice ... then if anyone overhears you, they will hear you being direct, confident in what you want, but also polite (which is important).

If you can, it might also be helpful to write this out on the computer, print out 2 copies and have you and your parents sign both copies. That way you can give one to the interpreter if needed, and can keep the other in your bag/backpack/etc to show your teachers etc if they ask any questions (show it to them if asked, but tell them you require it back to hold onto for other teachers etc). That way everyone knows that your parents are in agreement with what you are requesting

I really hope this helps !!

Anij · 03-27-2011, 12:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coolgirlspyer90

They say that they want to have a meeting so that way we can discuss of what I deserve to have from my interpreter.

GOOD!!

Tell them (have your parents) tell them that you require an independently hired certified interpreter for that (and any) meeting - and then call/email some of the interpreter agencies (they don't even have to be local) as well as RID to get a written info on what the resposibilties of an interpreter are.

You can also print out some information from the RID website:
RID Code of Professional Conduct info

RID "Standard Practices" (multiple PDF documents outlining the "role of the interpreter" and "proper practices" in various settings)

I'd suggest you and your parents read these over, print some relevant ones out as well as emailing them (and the RID website link) to the people who are wanting to set up a meeting.

The bottom line is that if they want to pull the "what interpreter/interpreting you 'deserve' " line of investigation it WILL go in your favour ...As a Hoh/Deaf person - in an educational setting (and many others) you are LEGALLY entitled to a proper, ethical, professional interpreter.

Call their bluff ... you'll win.

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-27-2011, 09:52 PM

Well I copied some of the important stuff that was said on this thread and printed it out to show to my mom your suggestions. She says that she agrees with you. And she has studied the RID interpreting rules, etc because she went to sinclair community college for sign language. She also told me that she has an associate degree for interpreting as well. I thought about my mom kind of being the back up for me but then i didn't think that would be a good idea. So yeah she knows some of the rules. But bleh, still nervous about what might or might not happen.. yikes!

CSign · 03-30-2011, 09:42 AM

I think your meeting is today. I hope it goes well... Do give us an update...

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-30-2011, 03:00 PM

Hey all,
I had my meeting today.

Great news, my interpreter resigned! It was her decision, and her choice. The school did not ask her to resign. I'm so happy. They already have a sub-interpreter for me for the rest of the year I already know the sub-interpreter too, shes my friend's mother, who moved to ohio from california and are in band with me as well.. Tomorrow is my last day of school then friday is my spring break, my interpreter's last day is tomorrow so after tomorrow, my interpreter isn't coming back. The supervisor said that they are going to find an full-time interpreter for me this summer and will let me meet my new interp before school starts again.

So far, I'm satisfied, excited, and so happy. I feel as if this load of stress just lifted off of my shoulders. I'm looking forward to next year so i don't have any more drama with the same interpreter. Just a new fresh, clean slate to start over. I wish this would have happened a long time ago though. It's a little sad though because She has been my interpreter for 6 years. But she did not do her job. My parents said that i shouldn't feel guilty for her, resigning. And that i taught the school what deaf people really needs.

During the meeting they basically asked my parents and I a bunch of questions about how the interpreter is suppose to be signing to me and communication between the interpreter and the teachers. And they kind of made excuses about how i wasn't paying attention to both the teachers and the interpreter. I mean i am trying my best, but whatever, just as long my interpreter is gone, and that i'm getting a new interpreter, i'm fine with it

CSign · 03-30-2011, 03:22 PM

Happy to hear that...

**Reba** · 03-30-2011, 03:25 PM

Wow!

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-30-2011, 04:16 PM

I'm super happy right now

**GrendelQ** · 03-30-2011, 05:15 PM

Yes, congratulations! That must feel so good, to know you have control over your accommodations, your services. That's how it should be!

Anij · 03-30-2011, 06:26 PM

Congrats!

One thing I would suggest is that you read up those links I posted before ... it's very important that you understand what your legal rights are (as well as responsibilities) as well as how to advocate for yourself.

This will become increasingly important once you're out of highschool, and have to advocate for your rights in situations like college/university and other situations (medical, legal, etc)

The more you learn about all these issues (including what your rights are, what various accommodation rules are in different settings, the rights/responsibilities and regulations that certified interpreters must abide by etc ) the better.

It's nice to have a "clean start"... it's a great time to make adjustments to prepare you for a more college setting

FWIW - personally, I had my 'terps sign all the time, even if I didn't audiologically "need" them to for some parts of the class - for me it was easier for the "default" to be "sign everything" and sometimes be able to understand what was orally said as well.

**Oddball** · 03-30-2011, 07:00 PM

I am very glad that your interpreter resigned. I think she knew that she was going to get canned for unprofessional behavior. You will have a fresh start from now on with a new interpreter. Hopefully, that new interpreter will treat you with the respect.

Bebonang · 03-30-2011, 08:09 PM

Wow, I am very impressed that you have done it to make them realize what the deaf person need in the classrooms. I have never thought that the interpreter would not care to interpret for the deaf students or going to a public places. I don't know if the old interpreter would continue to interpret outside to another realm like public places. But good riddance of the old interpreter, now you can move on with a new interpreter in your classrooms. Congratulation, coolgirlspyer90. Way to go, girl.

Miss-Delectable · 03-30-2011, 09:21 PM

Glad you've got a good outcome out of this farce.

dogmom · 03-31-2011, 08:55 AM

Happy for you on this outcome

Speedy Hawk · 03-31-2011, 02:24 PM

That brilliant news!

coolgirlspyer90 · 03-31-2011, 07:49 PM

thanks all, I appreciate your help!

Mountain Man · 04-13-2011, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coolgirlspyer90

Great news, my interpreter resigned! It was her decision, and her choice. The school did not ask her to resign.

She probably saw the writing on the wall and knew it was time for her to go. Let's hope she resigned from the interpreting profession because judging by your comments, her behavior is disgraceful.

wolf.waffles · 07-20-2011, 09:53 PM

That sounds like a great idea, the whole videotape her thing. But then that raises a whole mess of questions about what you could have been doing while you were videotaping. I guess you could switch up your body language if that isn't exuding focus in the class. Be super attentive and then see what the teachers say. I really hope you get this all fixed. Is there any way you could fire her and ask for a replacement? She isn't doing her job properly at all and it was right of you to tell your mom. I mean seriously, she's an interpreter, not a life coach!!

coolgirlspyer90 · 07-21-2011, 12:01 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wolf.waffles

That sounds like a great idea, the whole videotape her thing. But then that raises a whole mess of questions about what you could have been doing while you were videotaping. I guess you could switch up your body language if that isn't exuding focus in the class. Be super attentive and then see what the teachers say. I really hope you get this all fixed. Is there any way you could fire her and ask for a replacement? She isn't doing her job properly at all and it was right of you to tell your mom. I mean seriously, she's an interpreter, not a life coach!!

I agree. But I already resolved this problem in the spring with the school. She has resigned her position as an intepreter and isn't coming back.

MDCodeRedFreak · 07-21-2011, 02:41 AM

Congrats, coolgirl!

For me, I haven't had any beef with any of my interpreters except a couple of them that my VR hired for - those 2 terps are actually sub-terps. The issues I've come to was the SLOW signing as if they hasn't taken the RID test - I mean, come on. I need to catch up on what the profs and the students in class are saying. If the reg terp is not gonna be showing up, the agency informs me via email. If there's no replacement, then I still go to class anyway, knowing that I have notetakers that take notes in carbon copy paper for me. The notetakers get paid by my disability advisors and they get CC papers from them. How did the disability advisor pick a random student from MY classes to take notes, you might ask? Well they took a look in the course database to see who's taking those same classes as myself, and they email to each one asking for notetaking assistance.

Anyway, I told VR and the terping agency to not hire those 2 terps again and they listened. So far, so good ... because I just graduated from my uni with a BS in IT!

I'm considering grad school after I take some time off. I need a well-deserved break.

kbnyc · 07-21-2011, 03:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by coolgirlspyer90

I agree. But I already resolved this problem in the spring with the school. She has resigned her position as an intepreter and isn't coming back.

I look forward to future updates about the new terp. Go you!

Just reading through this all after it popped up on the new posts search...what a nightmare!

Why do some terps also think they're your mom/guardian/etc? That's just insulting.

Anywho, sending you well wishes for the new year!

Google · 07-21-2011, 08:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anij

k-12 interpreters seem to be under some utter delusion that it's not only their job to interpret, but also to be "parent","hall monitor","life judge" etc ... but it's NOT.

First, I know this post is old but I gotta respond.

I agree with your entire post. This one I kind of disagree but I am sure it is true in cases other than mine.

I had a fantastic interpreter in high school. She believed in only interpreting, not be a parent, hall monitor, etc. She fought my school about this because she has sworn secrecy. One day, the principle gave her the ultimatum - saying she will be fired or she does not agree with the school. And I guess she got scared for not knowing legalities at the moment. She and I would have conversations outside of classrooms and she is required to report what I am talking about, required to report if I am breaking any rules, etc. She wasn't a professional interpreter at that point and our friendship slowly drifted away.

My point is, I believe schools are responsible for interpreter's behavior despite being told by her own officials.

03-26-2011, 02:42 AM	#31 (permalink)
Anij Registered User Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Canada Posts: 2,087	As others stated - at any IEP meetings, or meetings discussing your interpreter's performance you are ENTITLED to have an independent fully certified interpreter for YOU at that meeting ... your school interpreter should NOT be the one interpreting at either of these - make sure you clearly state that you require them to hire a certified/licensed interpreter (not the school interpreter, or someone who "knows ASL" etc) for all meetings. Also - is there any way that either of your parents could "randomly" drop in one day and observe a few of your classes (ie how the interpreter is working etc) ... I know it might mean they have to take some time off work - but honestly, if they happened to quietly be sitting at the back of one of your classes before it started and just "observe" perhaps they'd see her being a lousy terp. Also - as Reba pointed out , it's not the interpreters JOB to tell you if you're paying attention "properly" ... it's their job to interpret. PERIOD. When I'm taking university classes, I don't spend the whole time with my eyes glued to my interpreters, I have to use a lot of peripheral vision at times to follow things that are going on (writing on the board/overheads etc) ... my interpreters keep interpreting even if I look down to write something, close my eyes for a second (watching "everything" as carefully as we do can get visually exhausting, sometimes you need a mini-break). k-12 interpreters seem to be under some utter delusion that it's not only their job to interpret, but also to be "parent","hall monitor","life judge" etc ... but it's NOT. Frankly the clear message needs to be sent my your parents and yourself (preferably in writing (sending multiple copies to the interpreter, your teachers, the principal and the school board office) that your interpreter's JOB is strictly to INTERPRET THE ENTIRE CONTENT OF THE CLASS regardless of if you are "paying attention" or not. They INTERPRET, and ONLY interpret. It is NOT they're job, nor do they have parental consent to comment on your "behaviour" in any way shape or form. It's also a good idea for it to be put in writing as a "reminder" that Hoh and Deaf individuals utilize our peripheral vision significantly more than hearing people - as such we do not have to "stare directly at an interpreter" at all times to see what they are signing. I'd think (hope) that a polite but sternly worded letter from your parents and yourself sent to "all related parties" (ie the 'terp, your teachers, the DHH coordinator, the principal etc) would go a long way in terms of helping the situation. As would a "drop in" by your parents (if they're legally allowed to do so). Google likes this. __________________ Hoh/Deaf ~ +120db deaf right , mild/mod flux left & APD English & ASL ...PAH!! Ignorance is NOT Bliss

03-27-2011, 12:10 AM	#39 (permalink)
Anij Registered User Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Canada Posts: 2,087	I would NOT suggest recording her - it's not worth it, will likely cause more harm than good, and there are better ways to deal with this. Another thing that would be a HUGE help is for your parents to arrange a meeting at the school with ALL of your teachers present, as well as the principal your SE supervisor you, your parents, and an independently hired certified interpreter. The sole purpose of the meeting being to make sure that the teachers are absolutely positively aware of what the interpreter SHOULD be doing (regardless of you YOU are doing). It might also be helpful to call in interpreter agency and ask if they have anyone who can do some sort of "interpreter orientations" at the meeting (even if you have to pay for it yourself - it's worth it AND you'll be helping any Hoh/Deaf students who come after you!!). Most teachers don't understand the role of an interpreter - they understand the role of a "signing educational assistant" (they sign, they deal with behaviour issues, and basically "get involved" with what the student is or is not doing). An interpreter on the other hand (as we know) is there to interpret the spoken and auditory information in the class into ASL, and then (if needed) voice for the Hoh/Deaf/SI person - they aren't your "buddy" , they aren't you "mother/father", they aren't your "behaviour monitor - they provide ASL/English and English/ASL interpretation. (Outside of class, if you want to be friends, all the power to you... but while she's functioning as your interpreter she's required to be absolutely professional. period.) I'd really suggest talking to your parents about writing the letter I mentioned previously -but also having a formal meeting with all your teachers etc and a independently hired interpreter so that once and for all the "role of your interpreter" can be made crystal clear to the teachers, the SE supervisor (who could use an unbiased reminder from someone like an interpreter orientation person from an agency - or university Disability Services Program) The best way to deal with on YOUR end is to be "very professional" - by which I mean politely but firmly state at the beginning of each class that you are requesting that the entire content of the class be interpreted - that she is to continue interpreting if you glance away (because you can see using your peripheral vision). Even if she thinks that you "appear to not be paying attention - or even fallen asleep" SHE is to continue interpreting in a professional manner - just like she would do for an adult student taking a university course. Repeat this EACH class (yeah, it's going to get annoying) so that she understands CLEARLY what you are requiring of her for each and every class. If you speak - make sure that you say it in a confident (but not rude) voice ... then if anyone overhears you, they will hear you being direct, confident in what you want, but also polite (which is important). If you can, it might also be helpful to write this out on the computer, print out 2 copies and have you and your parents sign both copies. That way you can give one to the interpreter if needed, and can keep the other in your bag/backpack/etc to show your teachers etc if they ask any questions (show it to them if asked, but tell them you require it back to hold onto for other teachers etc). That way everyone knows that your parents are in agreement with what you are requesting I really hope this helps !! __________________ Hoh/Deaf ~ +120db deaf right , mild/mod flux left & APD English & ASL ...PAH!! Ignorance is NOT Bliss

03-30-2011, 03:00 PM	#43 (permalink)
coolgirlspyer90 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,635	Hey all, I had my meeting today. Great news, my interpreter resigned! It was her decision, and her choice. The school did not ask her to resign. I'm so happy. They already have a sub-interpreter for me for the rest of the year I already know the sub-interpreter too, shes my friend's mother, who moved to ohio from california and are in band with me as well.. Tomorrow is my last day of school then friday is my spring break, my interpreter's last day is tomorrow so after tomorrow, my interpreter isn't coming back. The supervisor said that they are going to find an full-time interpreter for me this summer and will let me meet my new interp before school starts again. So far, I'm satisfied, excited, and so happy. I feel as if this load of stress just lifted off of my shoulders. I'm looking forward to next year so i don't have any more drama with the same interpreter. Just a new fresh, clean slate to start over. I wish this would have happened a long time ago though. It's a little sad though because She has been my interpreter for 6 years. But she did not do her job. My parents said that i shouldn't feel guilty for her, resigning. And that i taught the school what deaf people really needs. During the meeting they basically asked my parents and I a bunch of questions about how the interpreter is suppose to be signing to me and communication between the interpreter and the teachers. And they kind of made excuses about how i wasn't paying attention to both the teachers and the interpreter. I mean i am trying my best, but whatever, just as long my interpreter is gone, and that i'm getting a new interpreter, i'm fine with it shel90, GrendelQ, RachelRene and 1 others like this.

03-30-2011, 03:22 PM	#44 (permalink)
CSign Registered User Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Best Coast, USA Posts: 3,194	Happy to hear that... coolgirlspyer90 likes this.

03-30-2011, 03:25 PM	#45 (permalink)
Reba Granny Terp Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: South Carolina Posts: 39,161	Wow! coolgirlspyer90 likes this.

Today
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03-26-2011, 09:18 PM	#35 (permalink)
coolgirlspyer90 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,635	okay i seen alot about the taping idea and the parents or taxpayer dropping in classes. First off, the special education supervisor HAS came into one of my classes to observe my interpreter, at a random time. and my interpreter has behaved perfectly for her because the special education supervisor is her boss. and anytime somebody (whose like the most important person in the school) drops into my classroom, she will be on her behavior and act like what an interpreter will do. So, even if my parents did came in, my interpreter will act like that. The only time my interpreter isn't behaving as a real interpreter would is when shes around people who doesn't really care what she do, aka, my teachers. My teachers doesn't really know what interpreters are suppose to do so they don't really worry about it, or actually paying attention to what shes doing. They're mostly focusing on teaching the class (well, duh lol). 2ndly, I'm not sure about the taping idea. My parents brought it up. But my school is really strict about cellphones in class. My school has been keeping a really close eye on who is using cellphones in school. Anybody whose texting in class or playing on their phone would get a Saturday's school detention. But would it be worth the risk to get into trouble just for one lousy interpreter? not sure. But i swear, this week, if my interpreter is not going to be treating me right in a respectful way, i'm not going to be nice about this. Because i have had enough of her. I don't like the way how she yells at me when I'm "falling asleep" in class or how i'm not "doing" my homework. She should mind her own business. And besides, my actions are my own responsibilities. Whatever I did wrong, the teacher will discipline me, or my parents. not my interpreter. The school says that the only reason why me and her are acting like this is because we're like: "sisters". Sisters, really? NO. I have a real sister. my interpreter is NOT my sister. Sure i mean I had her since the 6th grade (middle school) up to this year. But jeesh, i never thought of her as my sister.

03-26-2011, 09:24 PM	#36 (permalink)
coolgirlspyer90 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,635	Oh I also forgot to mention one thing about my interpreter. My dad is friends with her on facebook. My interpreter doesn't add high school students on her facebook because we're still a minor. Anyways, after my mom confronted her on the phone last week, My interpreter posted a status on faceook and it showed up into my dad's newsfeed. He said that it went something like this:: "Bad day at school, things got worse afterwards. I need a beer." it sounds like her too. Because she's always telling me that whenever she isn't at work, shes out partying, drinking. If its not that, then shes complaining about how she had to go to bed at 3 in the morning and then had to get up at 5 with little amount of sleep because she couldn't sleep very well. She always says that. Shes always complaining about how the track coaches are mean to her and how she has to do her college online homework, about working at her 2nd job, etc. I mean, as an adult, they should learn how to deal with it (especially my interpreter) and figure out how to solve their own problems for themselves instead of complaining about it and doing nothing. That, personally, is my own opinion.

03-27-2011, 09:52 PM	#41 (permalink)
coolgirlspyer90 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,635	Well I copied some of the important stuff that was said on this thread and printed it out to show to my mom your suggestions. She says that she agrees with you. And she has studied the RID interpreting rules, etc because she went to sinclair community college for sign language. She also told me that she has an associate degree for interpreting as well. I thought about my mom kind of being the back up for me but then i didn't think that would be a good idea. So yeah she knows some of the rules. But bleh, still nervous about what might or might not happen.. yikes!

03-30-2011, 09:42 AM	#42 (permalink)
CSign Registered User Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Best Coast, USA Posts: 3,194	I think your meeting is today. I hope it goes well... Do give us an update...

03-30-2011, 04:16 PM	#46 (permalink)
coolgirlspyer90 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,635	I'm super happy right now

03-30-2011, 06:26 PM	#48 (permalink)
Anij Registered User Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Canada Posts: 2,087	Congrats! One thing I would suggest is that you read up those links I posted before ... it's very important that you understand what your legal rights are (as well as responsibilities) as well as how to advocate for yourself. This will become increasingly important once you're out of highschool, and have to advocate for your rights in situations like college/university and other situations (medical, legal, etc) The more you learn about all these issues (including what your rights are, what various accommodation rules are in different settings, the rights/responsibilities and regulations that certified interpreters must abide by etc ) the better. It's nice to have a "clean start"... it's a great time to make adjustments to prepare you for a more college setting FWIW - personally, I had my 'terps sign all the time, even if I didn't audiologically "need" them to for some parts of the class - for me it was easier for the "default" to be "sign everything" and sometimes be able to understand what was orally said as well. __________________ Hoh/Deaf ~ +120db deaf right , mild/mod flux left & APD English & ASL ...PAH!! Ignorance is NOT Bliss

03-30-2011, 07:00 PM	#49 (permalink)
Oddball Premium Member Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: The Toxic State Posts: 4,570	I am very glad that your interpreter resigned. I think she knew that she was going to get canned for unprofessional behavior. You will have a fresh start from now on with a new interpreter. Hopefully, that new interpreter will treat you with the respect.

03-30-2011, 08:09 PM	#50 (permalink)
Bebonang Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Manitoulin Island on Lake Huron in Canada Posts: 7,009	Wow, I am very impressed that you have done it to make them realize what the deaf person need in the classrooms. I have never thought that the interpreter would not care to interpret for the deaf students or going to a public places. I don't know if the old interpreter would continue to interpret outside to another realm like public places. But good riddance of the old interpreter, now you can move on with a new interpreter in your classrooms. Congratulation, coolgirlspyer90. Way to go, girl. __________________ I HAVE BEEN DEAF SINCE BIRTH, AND IT IS STILL AWESOME TO BE . (thumb up) (very happy)

03-30-2011, 09:21 PM	#51 (permalink)
Miss-Delectable V.I.P. Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 17,174 Blog Entries: 3	Glad you've got a good outcome out of this farce. __________________ "Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light." - Helen Keller

03-31-2011, 08:55 AM	#52 (permalink)
dogmom Registered User Join Date: Feb 2009 Posts: 5,475	Happy for you on this outcome

03-31-2011, 02:24 PM	#53 (permalink)
Speedy Hawk Registered User Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: England Posts: 816	That brilliant news!

03-31-2011, 07:49 PM	#54 (permalink)
coolgirlspyer90 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,635	thanks all, I appreciate your help!

07-20-2011, 09:53 PM	#56 (permalink)
wolf.waffles Registered User Join Date: Jul 2011 Location: Cali Posts: 2	That sounds like a great idea, the whole videotape her thing. But then that raises a whole mess of questions about what you could have been doing while you were videotaping. I guess you could switch up your body language if that isn't exuding focus in the class. Be super attentive and then see what the teachers say. I really hope you get this all fixed. Is there any way you could fire her and ask for a replacement? She isn't doing her job properly at all and it was right of you to tell your mom. I mean seriously, she's an interpreter, not a life coach!!

07-21-2011, 02:41 AM	#58 (permalink)
MDCodeRedFreak Registered User Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: In a place where Code Red flows Posts: 1,642	Congrats, coolgirl! For me, I haven't had any beef with any of my interpreters except a couple of them that my VR hired for - those 2 terps are actually sub-terps. The issues I've come to was the SLOW signing as if they hasn't taken the RID test - I mean, come on. I need to catch up on what the profs and the students in class are saying. If the reg terp is not gonna be showing up, the agency informs me via email. If there's no replacement, then I still go to class anyway, knowing that I have notetakers that take notes in carbon copy paper for me. The notetakers get paid by my disability advisors and they get CC papers from them. How did the disability advisor pick a random student from MY classes to take notes, you might ask? Well they took a look in the course database to see who's taking those same classes as myself, and they email to each one asking for notetaking assistance. Anyway, I told VR and the terping agency to not hire those 2 terps again and they listened. So far, so good ... because I just graduated from my uni with a BS in IT! I'm considering grad school after I take some time off. I need a well-deserved break. __________________ ~The Code Red Freak

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