R 3498 Contracted Services- Interpreters

Barnstable Public Schools is seeking to contract with multiple independent interpreters to provide high-quality oral interpretation (and occasional sight translation of event materials) at after-school and evening events in order to ensure all families can actively participate in their child’s education**.**

Applicants understand that they are seeking to create an independent contractor relationship and that the interpreter shall not be considered an employee of Barnstable Public Schools.

This engagement is part-time, as-needed and paid at an hourly rate ($25/hour).

Anticipated dates include but are not limited to: October 20, 2026; October 22, 2026; November 17, 2026; November 19, 2026; December 1, 2026; December 3, 2026

Desired languages include but are not limited to: Brazilian Portuguese, Spanish, Haitian-Creole.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

• Absolute fluency (speaking, reading, and writing) in English and the target language [e.g., Spanish, Portuguese].
• Minimum of 1–2 years of experience providing interpretation services, preferably in an educational or community setting.
• Deep understanding of the cultural nuances of the community being served.
• Satisfactory background check (e.g. CORI).
• Excellent communication skills, empathy, and a welcoming demeanor.

Preferred

• Formal certification in educational interpreting.
• Familiarity with K-12 education terminology (e.g., IEP, ESL, standardized testing, credit requirements).

PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide accurate, real-time interpretation (simultaneous or consecutive) during after-school events.
• Interpret presentations, workshops, Q&A sessions, and one-on-one conversations between staff and parents.
• Assist with welcoming families and directing them through event spaces.
• Provide on-the-spot translation (sight translation) of brief written materials used during events, such as agendas, flyers, sign-in sheets, or presentation slides.
• Help manage interpretation equipment (such as headsets) if provided by the school.
• Maintain student confidentiality as required by relevant State and Federal laws (e.g. FERPA, MA state regulations on student records).

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to speak clearly and continuously for extended periods (often 1–2 hours at a time) during long presentations or workshops.
• Ability to walk, stand, and move quickly around various school environments (such as gyms, auditoriums, classrooms, and outdoor sports fields) to assist families during active events.
• Excellent hearing to accurately capture speech in noisy, crowded environments with ambient background noise (e.g., school festivals, bustling open houses).
• Ability to stand for long intervals during mix-and-mingle events, or sit for extended periods during formal panel presentations.

Revised September, 2026