Brand the Interpreter
What if La Malinche—the Indigenous woman who famously served as interpreter and advisor to Hernán Cortés during the Spanish conquest of Mexico—could share her stories? Imagine the insights and experiences she could offer about the power of language and navigating the complexities of two worlds. That’s the spirit behind the Brand the Interpreter Podcast!
Hosted by Mireya Pérez, an interpreter and personal brand advocate, this podcast gives today’s interpreters a platform to share their own fascinating stories, challenges, and triumphs. Each episode pulls back the curtain on the world of interpreting, from navigating high-stakes conversations to facilitating cross-cultural understanding, offering listeners a glimpse into the lives of the professionals who bring meaning across languages.
Whether you’re an interpreter, a bilingual professional, or simply curious about the magic that happens behind the scenes, Brand the Interpreter immerses you in the stories of language professionals making an impact every day. It’s more than just a podcast—it’s a celebration of language, connection, and the vital human element that makes communication possible.
Join us to explore how the power of language, driven by human connection, shapes understanding, opens new worlds, and transforms perspectives, revealing the deeper truths that unite us all.
Brand the Interpreter
The Reflection Room: Transforming Schools for Multilingual Success
Welcome Back to the Reflection Room!
This bite-sized episode offers a quick and engaging glimpse into the key highlights, thought-provoking moments, and valuable takeaways from Transforming Schools for Multilingual Success with Mark Byrne. Designed for listeners on the go, The Reflection Room condenses the conversation into a brief, impactful reflection, perfect for sparking curiosity or revisiting the main ideas.
Tune in for an insightful recap and then dive into the full episode for the complete story!
Disclaimer: The audio in this episode has been enhanced using AI-generated elements. While every effort has been made to maintain the authenticity and quality of the content, some of the voices are not human-produced. Thank you for embracing this creative approach as we continue to innovate and explore new storytelling techniques.
Relevant Resources:
Illinois State Board of Education: Special Education Qualified IEP Interpreters
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Hey everyone and welcome back for another deep dive with us. Today we're going to be tackling something that's super important in education and really just in our society as a whole, and that's language access. And particularly, we're going to be focusing on language access in schools, and I think this could be really fascinating for anyone listening, whether you're a school leader, maybe you're a decision maker or even a professional interpreter, because we're going to be pulling some really insightful information from an interview with Mark Byrne, who is like a total champion in this field.
Speaker 3:We'll be drawing from his interview on the Brand the Interpreter podcast.
Speaker 2:Yes, which you should all check out, by the way.
Speaker 3:Great podcast.
Speaker 2:But yeah, so Mark's story in and of itself is super fascinating.
Speaker 1:Oh yeah.
Speaker 2:He actually dropped out of high school and then went on this incredible journey to become this leading expert and advocate for language access leading expert and advocate for language access and you know, one of the things that really stood out to me when I was reading about him was how his time in Peru really kind of shaped his perspective on things.
Speaker 3:It's amazing how those experiences abroad and those different cultures and languages can shift your worldview, isn't it?
Speaker 2:Totally and he even talks about like seeing you know different levels of poverty and you know just different ways of life, and that really made him kind of wake up to how much we take for granted here and a theoretical standpoint. He's really connecting with the families and understanding their struggles because he's, you know, seen it firsthand For sure, for sure. So let's kind of get into the meat of this, like what is it about language access that is so crucial in schools?
Speaker 3:Okay.
Speaker 2:I mean beyond, just like understanding each other. You know what I mean, yeah.
Speaker 3:Yeah, that's a good question and I think you hit the nail on the head there, because so often we get stuck on that very surface level, right. Just thinking about oh, we need to translate this document or we need an interpreter for this meeting, right, and we kind of miss the bigger picture, which is the impact that language access has on trust, engagement and, ultimately, student success.
Speaker 2:So yeah, paint that picture for me a little bit more. Yeah, what does that impact actually look like?
Speaker 3:Sure. So Mark uses this really interesting analogy. He compares it to how businesses invest in understanding their target audience, right Like if a business wants to be successful, they need to know their customers' needs, their preferences, and they tailor their approach to kind of maximize that impact.
Speaker 2:Right, so it's like they really need to understand who they're serving.
Speaker 3:Exactly, and that's the same lens we need to apply to language access in schools.
Speaker 2:Got it.
Speaker 3:It's an investment in building those relationships with families, fostering genuine connection. It's about creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels seen and heard.
Speaker 2:I love that, yeah. So how do we get there? How do you go from seeing it as like just another line item in the budget?
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:To this essential investment.
Speaker 3:Yeah, that's the million dollar question, and one of the key strategies that Mark talks about is this idea of identifying and empowering language champions in each school building.
Speaker 2:OK, I've heard that term before, but what does that actually look like in practice?
Speaker 3:So think of them as kind of ambassadors for language access within their schools. They're the go to people, for both staff and families. They make sure that everyone knows what resources are available and how to access them.
Speaker 2:So they're also like a bridge between the school and the community, in a way. Exactly, and they're crucial for creating that system-wide change that we're talking about, but I imagine that even with like the most passionate staff and even if you have these language champions in place, achieving like district-wide language access is still a huge challenge.
Speaker 3:Oh, absolutely. There are definitely roadblocks along the way and it requires a lot of coordination and planning. Even with the most enthusiastic staff, you know it's not a quick fix.
Speaker 2:Not a quick fix at all. It's definitely a journey.
Speaker 3:Right. So what are some practical steps that schools can take to start making this happen?
Speaker 2:Well, the first step is really about identifying those individuals who are already passionate about this issue. Right, you know, maybe they're bilingual staff members or teachers who have experience working with multilingual learners, or even parents who have been really active advocates.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:You tap into that existing enthusiasm and then you give them the support and training they need to become those effective language champions.
Speaker 3:So yeah, Build on the strengths that you already have.
Speaker 2:Exactly. And then it's about providing that ongoing support Okay, making sure they have access to professional development opportunities, information about interpretation and translation services, right, cultural sensitivity training, all of that.
Speaker 3:So equip them to really make a difference.
Speaker 2:Exactly Now. On top of all that, we also have to remember that the landscape of language access itself is constantly evolving. Oh yeah, for sure, there are new challenges, new trends and new technologies emerging all the time. What are some of the things that are kind of on the horizon now that you're seeing?
Speaker 3:Well, Mark was a little hesitant to talk too much about what's happening at the federal level.
Speaker 2:Yeah, it makes sense with the election coming up.
Speaker 3:Right, exactly, but he did highlight some really encouraging developments at the state level.
Speaker 2:Okay, so tell me more about that. What's happening at the state level?
Speaker 3:Well, illinois, for example, has implemented some really impressive legislation that, honestly, should be the gold standard everywhere.
Speaker 1:Oh, wow.
Speaker 3:They've actually mandated interpreter rights for IEP meetings, which means that districts are required to inform families of their right to have an interpreter present and those interpreters are paid for by the district.
Speaker 2:Wow, that's huge because I know those IEP meetings can be so crucial and complicated.
Speaker 3:Absolutely, and if you understand what's being said, you know you can't really advocate for your child effectively.
Speaker 2:Right right.
Speaker 3:So this is a huge step towards ensuring that families can meaningfully participate in those meetings.
Speaker 2:That's fantastic. So what else are they doing in Illinois?
Speaker 3:They've also mandated that pre-translated IEP documents have to be provided to families three days before the meeting.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:So this gives them time to digest the information, understand it fully and prepare any questions they might have.
Speaker 2:I mean, that just seems like common sense to me.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:But I'm sure that's not happening everywhere.
Speaker 3:Unfortunately not, but it makes such a difference. You know. Imagine trying to process all that information in a language you're not fluent in. Right during the meeting itself. It's just not setting families up for success.
Speaker 2:No, it's so important to give them the time and the resources to really understand what's going on.
Speaker 3:Absolutely, and they're also tackling the whole world of machine translation in Illinois.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:How so they're requiring human post-editing for IEP documents to ensure accuracy and nuance?
Speaker 2:That's smart.
Speaker 3:Yeah, so you get that efficiency of technology combined with the precision and cultural sensitivity of a human touch.
Speaker 2:Which is so important when you're dealing with. You know these really like sensitive and technical documents.
Speaker 3:Absolutely, and the great thing is that this momentum is not limited to Illinois.
Speaker 2:Oh, that's good to hear.
Speaker 3:Other states, like Colorado and New Jersey, are implementing similar measures, so there's definitely this growing awareness of just how important language access is in education.
Speaker 2:And that's where you know platforms like Brand the Interpreter really come in, because they're giving a voice to experts like Mark.
Speaker 3:Yes.
Speaker 2:Who are out there on the front lines advocating for these changes and sharing these developments and inspiring others.
Speaker 3:They really are helping to move the needle and showcase the real world impact of language access.
Speaker 2:For sure, for sure. And it all kind of circles back to this concept of lost time that Mark talks about.
Speaker 3:Yes, that's such a powerful way to frame it.
Speaker 2:Because if schools don't have clear processes and trained personnel in place to handle language access, then everyone suffers.
Speaker 3:Exactly. Teachers struggle to communicate effectively with parents, families feel frustrated and unheard and, ultimately, students miss out on valuable learning opportunities.
Speaker 2:And, as Mark pointed out, that lost time it accumulates, it becomes a bottleneck for the entire school district.
Speaker 3:Exactly, and it hinders progress and prevents everyone from reaching their full potential.
Speaker 2:So for our listeners out there, especially those who are maybe in leadership roles, what are some key takeaways from this part of our deep dive?
Speaker 3:Well, I think the biggest takeaway is that language access is not just a nice to have. It's an essential investment in student success and equity, and it requires a multifaceted approach. You know, we need to be collecting data, we need to be identifying and empowering language champions, and we need to be creating a school culture that truly values and embraces linguistic diversity.
Speaker 2:So it's about more than just, you know, checking boxes or meeting some kind of legal requirement.
Speaker 3:Exactly. It's about creating a learning environment where every student and every family feels welcomed, respected and supported.
Speaker 2:Awesome. Well, we're going to take a quick break and then, when we come back, we'll continue our deep dive into language access in schools. So stay tuned.
Speaker 3:Okay, so we've talked about how important language access is and the impact it has, but let's get practical.
Speaker 2:How do we actually make this happen in schools?
Speaker 3:So one of the first things that Mark emphasizes is the importance of data, like really understanding the language demographics of your school community.
Speaker 2:Makes it. You got to know who you're serving before you can effectively meet their needs right.
Speaker 3:Exactly, and he made this really interesting point about how just counting the number of students who are currently classified as English learners doesn't actually give you the full picture.
Speaker 2:Oh, interesting, because a student might not need language support services anymore, but their family still might.
Speaker 3:Precisely, you need to take a more holistic view.
Speaker 2:Yeah, look at the whole school community.
Speaker 3:Exactly, and that data can inform everything from your communication strategies to professional development for your staff.
Speaker 2:So it's really about being proactive.
Speaker 3:Yes, anticipating needs and building systems that work for everyone.
Speaker 2:And that brings us back to those language champions we were talking about. It does those individuals in each school who are kind of like the point people for language access?
Speaker 3:Yes, think of them as problem solvers, advocates, connectors. They're there for both staff and families when language barriers come up.
Speaker 2:So let's say I'm a school leader listening to this and I'm like, ok, I'm on board, I want to do this.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 2:How do I actually find and empower these language champions?
Speaker 3:Well, first you've got to look for those who are already demonstrating that passion. Ok look for those who are already demonstrating that passion. Maybe they're bilingual staff members or teachers who have experience working with multilingual learners, or even parents who've been really actively involved in advocating for language access.
Speaker 2:So you're tapping into that existing enthusiasm and expertise.
Speaker 3:Exactly, and then you provide them with the training and resources they need to really excel in this role.
Speaker 2:Like. What kind of training are we talking about?
Speaker 3:Well, it could be professional development on language access best practices.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Information about interpretation and translation services, cultural sensitivity, training, all of that.
Speaker 2:So really equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to make a difference.
Speaker 3:And don't forget about visibility, making sure everyone in the school community knows who these language champions are and how to reach them.
Speaker 2:Yeah, so like putting their information on this school website?
Speaker 3:Exactly, having it in newsletters, posting it in prominent locations around the school.
Speaker 2:It's about making it easy for people to access that support.
Speaker 3:And it's also about creating a culture where language differences are seen as assets, not barriers.
Speaker 2:It's that whole shift in mindset.
Speaker 3:Yes, exactly, and that goes back to what Mark said about focusing on impact over output.
Speaker 2:I really like that concept.
Speaker 3:Right, it's not just like that concept Right. It's not just about checking boxes.
Speaker 2:Yeah.
Speaker 3:It's about making sure that every interaction with families is respectful, clear and meaningful.
Speaker 2:It's about building those genuine connections.
Speaker 3:Exactly so. For those of you out there who are school leaders or decision makers, what are some concrete actions you can take right now to make language access a priority in your schools?
Speaker 2:Yeah, give us the to-do list.
Speaker 3:Okay, so first start by collecting that data.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:Understand the language demographics of your community and identify any gaps in your current services.
Speaker 2:Seems like a pretty manageable first step.
Speaker 3:Then identify and empower your language champions. Provide them with the training and resources they need.
Speaker 2:Check gang. Check what's next.
Speaker 3:Make language access part of your school's overall strategic plan.
Speaker 1:Okay.
Speaker 3:Integrate it into your budget, your professional development offerings.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:And your communication strategies.
Speaker 2:So it's not just like this separate thing that you do off to the side.
Speaker 3:It's woven into the fabric of the school.
Speaker 2:It's part of the mission.
Speaker 3:And remember this is an ongoing process.
Speaker 1:Right.
Speaker 3:It's about continuous improvement, staying informed about best practices, legislative changes.
Speaker 1:Yeah.
Speaker 3:And always striving to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment.
Speaker 2:So we know this is a lot to take in, right, but we've put together some helpful resources for you.
Speaker 3:Yes.
Speaker 2:Including a link to Mark Byrne's full interview on the Brand the Interpreter podcast.
Speaker 3:Definitely check that out. You can find all of that in the show notes for this episode. And for those of you who are professional interpreters, listening, think about how you can be a resource for your local schools.
Speaker 2:Share your expertise, offer training or even advocate for policies that promote language access and equity.
Speaker 3:It takes a village right.
Speaker 2:It really does, we all have a role to play in making sure every student has the opportunity to thrive.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. And as we wrap up this part of our deep dive, we want to leave you with a few questions to ponder.
Speaker 2:Okay.
Speaker 3:What can you do within your own role to make language access everyone's responsibility?
Speaker 2:Good question.
Speaker 3:How can you make sure that families feel welcomed, respected and empowered to participate in their children's education?
Speaker 2:And what resources are out there to support you in this work.
Speaker 3:We'll be back in just a moment to explore some more inspiring examples and practical tips for making language access a reality in your school. Welcome back to the Deep Dive. I'm feeling really inspired by all these amazing changes that are happening.
Speaker 2:It's incredible to see how states are stepping up and really taking the lead on language, access and equity.
Speaker 3:Yeah, for sure. So we've covered the what and the why, but now I want to know the how. How do schools actually put these ideas into action? Well, let's think about that first impression. You know, imagine a family, maybe new to the country, walking into a school for the very first time. What can we do to make them feel welcome and comfortable?
Speaker 2:I mean having clear signage in multiple languages would be a good start, right.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. That sends a strong message that this is a place where all families are valued.
Speaker 2:Yeah, and it's not just the main entrance, right.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:You got to think about the front office, the nurses station, even the restrooms.
Speaker 3:Exactly.
Speaker 2:All the key areas.
Speaker 3:Make it easy for families to navigate the building.
Speaker 2:And having staff members who can greet them in their native language, oh yeah, can make such a difference.
Speaker 3:Even if it's just a simple hello or welcome.
Speaker 2:It shows you've made that effort to connect with them.
Speaker 3:And then, of course, there are all those school forms and documents.
Speaker 2:Oh yeah.
Speaker 3:Which can be so overwhelming if you're not fluent in English.
Speaker 2:Right, like registration forms, permission slips, the school handbook. All of that needs to be translated.
Speaker 3:Yeah, and remember what Mark said about pre-translating IEP documents. Yes, that's crucial.
Speaker 2:So families can actually understand what's being discussed in those meetings.
Speaker 3:It's about removing those language barriers and empowering families to be active participants.
Speaker 2:And it's not just official documents.
Speaker 3:Right.
Speaker 2:It's also about those day-to-day communications.
Speaker 3:Exactly. Schools can use things like multilingual messaging apps, translation software to communicate with families about all sorts of things.
Speaker 2:Yeah, like school events, homework assignments, even just checking in.
Speaker 3:Keeping those lines of communication open and accessible.
Speaker 2:But you know, in the midst of all this technology, we can't forget about that personal connection.
Speaker 3:Absolutely. Sometimes, a simple phone call or a home visit can be the most effective way to build rapport.
Speaker 2:Yeah, and involving bilingual staff members or interpreters in those interactions can really help bridge the gap.
Speaker 3:It shows families that you're invested in their well-being and that you're there to support them.
Speaker 2:So, as we wrap up this deep dive, I want to leave our listeners with one final question to think about. How can you, within your own sphere of influence, advocate for language access and equity in your community, because we all have a role to play.
Speaker 1:We do.
Speaker 2:Whether you're a teacher, a parent, a community member, we can all contribute to creating a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for everyone.
Speaker 3:Language access is a human right.
Speaker 2:It is.
Speaker 3:And it's essential for unlocking the potential of every child.
Speaker 2:And if you want to learn more about this topic, be sure to check out the full interview with Mark Byrne on the Brand, the Interpreter podcast.
Speaker 3:Great podcast.
Speaker 2:You can find a link in the show notes.
Speaker 3:Thanks for joining us on this deep dive.
Speaker 2:We hope you learned a lot and feel inspired to make a difference.
Speaker 3:Until next time, keep learning, keep advocating and keep pushing for a world where language is never a barrier to success hi there.
Speaker 1:If you're enjoying these short reflection room episodes, please remember to share them on your social media platforms or with your network. That would appreciate to hear the Brand the Interpreter. Episodes in a bite-sized format, as always. Thanks for tuning in, till next time.
