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