Interpreter Resources

Our pledge to keep our interpreters on top of regulation and law changes starts with us providing resources for them or those interested in increasing their knowledge of Sign Language. Here a few links that we feel are relevant to those interests. We will be updating these links as time goes on.

Interpreter Resources

RID - Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf

https://www.rid.org

The website for Interpreter resources such as Standard Practice papers and Code of Ethics/Professional Conduct guidelines.

Texas Society of Interpreters for the Deaf

https://tsid.org

Over 40 Years of Service

On November 16, 1963, 30 individuals (24 interpreters, 5 members of the deaf community, and one parent of a deaf child) from all over Texas signed the Charter which established the Texas Society of Interpreters for the Deaf. As the first professional organization of interpreters in the nation, TSID has been one of the leaders in this field. TSID is a non-profit organization established for the purpose of developing and strengthening the profession of interpreting in Texas.

Mission

The primary emphasis of TSID is the development, strengthening, and enhancement of a network of professional interpreters.

To promote the development and expansion of quality interpreting services available to persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing;
To encourage the recruitment and training of professionals in interpreting for persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing;
To promote the highest standards in interpreting for and communicating with persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing;
To train and encourage those interested in learning to communicate with persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing;
To offer a forum for professional interpreters for exchange of ideas, opinions, and information concerning interpreting;
To offer meetings whereby members can learn, upgrade skills, and participate in group activities;
To unitedly support legislative interests and concerns;
To utilize the InterpreTexan as the vehicle for dissemination and exchange of information; update of events; legislative and national information; special announcements; information regarding the happenings, workshops, meetings, etc. of the local chapters of TSID, and RID.

Rio Grande Valley Interpreters for the Deaf

https://tsid.org/rgvid

The Rio Grande Valley Interpreters for the deaf come from the length of the Valley from Brownsville to Rio Grande City. Our Membership includes both Certified and Non-certified interpreters, students, and various supporters. We are ALL committed to bridging the gap between the deaf and hearing worlds.

Situations and Recommended Interpreter Certification Levels

Educational Links

TERP Savvy

https://www.terpsavvy.com

TERP SAVVY is designed to help you reach your career goals as a sign language interpreter. You can participate in online courses from your desk, and receive up-to-date, relevant training that will make you a more knowledgeable, well-rounded, and marketable interpreter.

DARS Consumer Training and Education

https://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/trnganded.shtml

Interpreter Certification Guidance - Texas Education Agency

https://tea.texas.gov/Curriculum_and_Instructional_Programs/Special_Education/Programs_and_Services/State_Guidance/Interpreter_Certification_Guidance/

Legal Resources

Disability Rights Services

https://www.disabilityrightstx.org/how-we-do-it/what-to-expect

Information on how to file a complaint if you’re being denied an interpreter or have been assigned an unqualified interpreter.

DARS - Complaints against interpreters

https://www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/bei/ch2.htm

To file a complaint against an interpreter certified by the Office for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services a BEI general complaint form may be completed and returned to DHHS within 90 days of incident. Complaints may also be filed in the form of a letter, e-mail, fax, or DVD, to the BEI office listed on the website link above.

South Texas Civil Rights Project

https://www.texascivilrightsproject.org
Attorney Joseph Martin 956-787-8171 Ext. 108

HEARD (Helping Educate to Advance the Rights of the Deaf)

Amanda Tuite
Communication Access Specialist
Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
Rehabilitate & Social Services Section
Health & Human Services Commission
[email protected]