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Information for Students

The Role of the Interpreter
The interpreter facilitates communication between deaf and hearing individuals. Interpreter conduct is governed by the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Code of Ethics. Understanding the role of the interpreter will help avoid problems and conflicts during an assignment.

Scheduling
Requests for interpreting services must be submitted to DSS at least five full working days before the assignment; the more notice the better. Returning students are expected to pre-register at the earliest possible date. DSS attempts to assign interpreters based on individual needs, consumer preferences, and availability of appropriate resources. Late requests are considered only if interpreters are available or if there is a cancellation. Even if a request is submitted in a timely manner, DSS may not be able to meet every demand due to a shortage of available or qualified interpreters.

DSS can assist students with the registration process; however, interpreting requests will not be filled until registration is complete.

Cancellations
If you must cancel an assignment, please inform DSS as soon as possible. DSS is responsible for paying interpreters for untimely cancellations, less than two working days for one-time assignments and five working days for ongoing assignments. Continual last minute cancellations or absences may result in the discontinuation of services.

Changes
If there are changes in locations, schedules, or interpreting demands, please notify DSS as soon as possible. If the changes are significant, DSS may not be able to accommodate the new request but will make every effort possible.

Conflict Resolution
Interpreters appreciate constructive criticism. Your feedback also helps DSS in assigning interpreters. If issues arise, you should share your concerns directly with the interpreter. If the issues are significant, such as questions about the interpreter's ability to meet the requirements of the assignment or the assignment presents unusual demands, please notify DSS immediately. DSS will attempt to resolve the problem with as little interference to the assignment as possible.

Information for Interpreters

Ehtical Conduct
All interpreters are expected to adhere to the guidelines found in the RID Code of Ethics. The highest ethical conduct is expected at all times.

Certification
DSS pays interpreters according to their certification from the RID (or equivalent if fitting). Certified interpreters must provide DSS with a copy of their current certification card. DSS would like to support the concept of skill maintenance. We encourage interpreters to send us a copy or list of workshops and classes taken in the profession of interpreting or language skill development/enhancement, to be kept in the interpreter's records.

Compensation
Interpreters receive hourly compensation according to their certification, with consideration of experience, longevity at GW, subject area expertise, and education.

Reporting Hours
GW pays to the quarter hour, with a 2 hour minimum. Payment is rendered every two weeks. Time sheets are due to Marvin Center 242 no later than 5 p.m. on Friday of Week II. Failure to submit hours by that deadline will result in a two week delay. Checks can be mailed or picked up on Fridays after 1 p.m. Direct deposit is also available.

Preparation
Interpreters are expected to prepare for assignments as part of their professional responsibility. Upon request, books and materials may be made available. We are generally able to obtain textbooks from the bookstore on loan which allows interpreters needed materials for class preparation. This
means that all texts must be returned to DSS in excellent condition and in a timely manner, by the last day of class. Please do not write or mark in the books. If you need something copied, please let us know.

Assignment Cancellations
The University adheres to the standard practice of a 48 hour (two working days) cancellation policy. If an ongoing class is canceled less than five working days prior to the start date or the student drops the class, the interpreter(s) are paid two weeks severance. In the event that an ongoing assignment is canceled for one date only, interpreters are paid for the assignment. Please notify DSS when an assignment has been canceled. Please note that if an interpreter does not have an answering machine or similar service and fails to receive notification of the cancellation, DSS is not responsible for paying the interpreter for the canceled assignment.

Assignments that last longer than scheduled
If it appears that an assignment will last longer than scheduled and the interpreter's schedule can accommodate the additional time, interpreters must notify DSS within 48 hours so that the additional time can be verified for payroll purposes.

Parking
DSS reimburses interpreters for on-campus parking. If you are working for GW on an ongoing basis, please request an Application for Parking Permit from the Director. You will need to take the application along with your vehicle registration to the Parking Office in the University Garage, 2211 H Street, NW, in order to get an occasional parking permit. This will allow you to park in the visitors' area of the garage but receive the faculty rate. Please keep your receipt and write your name, address, and social security number on the back, and turn it in to DSS. Parking reimbursements are processed on a bi-weekly basis. DSS does not reimburse for travel.

Team Interpreting
Team interpreting is provided when the assignment requires it. The purpose of team interpreting is to provide the consumer with quality services throughout the duration of an assignment. Interpreters are expected to remain at and working in the assignment for the duration. If an interpreter finds that he/she will be alone, DSS pays the interpreter at a rate of time and one-half. DSS must be notified within 48 hours that the team interpreter did not appear for the assignment.

Consumer Relations
If issues arise, you should share your concerns directly with the student. If the issues are significant, such as questions about your ability to meet the requirements of the assignment or the assignment presents unusual demands, please notify DSS immediately. DSS will attempt to resolve the problem with as little interference to the assignment possible.

Late Arrival Policy
In the event that a consumer fails to appear, interpreters should wait at least 20 minutes for a one-hour assignment, 30 minutes for assignments longer than an hour, and one hour for all-day assignments. Interpreters must notify DSS immediately if a consumer fails to appear.

Substitutes
Interpreters are expected to secure their own substitute with advice on appropriate replacements from DSS. A substitute list is available. However, because each interpreter is hired according to the requirements of an assignment, all substitutes must be discussed with DSS. Interpreters who fail to report for an assignment and/or who fail to aggressively search for a substitute are subject to termination.

Termination
Interpreters who do not adhere to the standards of the profession and/or university policies are subject to termination. In cases of termination, DSS is obligated to pay the interpreter for work performed only as of the date of termination.