A. Yes, with the exception of religious services and volunteered interpreting services. Even though CODAs may be fluently bilingual in ASL and English, there are many other aspects of professional interpreting that they may not have experience in. One such example is ethical decisions which may need to be made while interpreting between deaf and hearing persons. Also there is the need to be proficient in a broad range of sign vocabulary and English vocabulary. A. Traditionally, schools have had a difficult time attracting skilled interpreters.
Educational interpreters are amongst the lowest paid of all educational staff.
Many feel that class room interpreters should be extremely proficient as they are the language models for Deaf children. This legislation encourages educational systems to recognize interpreters as a part of the professional educational team, thus improving the retention of skilled staff. The bill recognizes ITP graduates as having novice skills. With proof of their graduation status, they can interpret 5 years after graduation before needing certification. Even though it is recognized, it is not a requirement.