Following these simple guidelines will help make your meeting a success and the interpretation process a pleasant experience for everyone.
  1. Please allow the interpreter to decide which interpreting technique is the most appropriate for the situation.
  2. Be aware that the interpreter, if working alone, may need a break after every hour worked.
  3. When the interpreter is interpreting consecutively (taking turns with you), please remember to pause after every sentence or thought.
  4. When reading a presentation, provide the interpreter with a copy of the presentation. Also, please read slowly and enunciate clearly.
  5. Presenters should avoid professional jargon and uncommon acronyms (unless absolutely necessary).
  6. When conducting elections, do not call for the vote until the interpreter finishes interpreting the item that will be voted on.
  7. Pause when school bells, sirens or other loud noises sound, as the interpreter cannot hear over them.
  8. Side conversations in the vicinity of the interpreter and loud playing and screaming by children make it virtually impossible for the interpreter to his or her job.
  9. Abstain from having more than one person speak at the same time.
  10. Do not expect the interpreter to perform functions not related to interpreting or sight translation (translating a written text out loud).
  11. Be aware that all participants that are not bilingual may be requested to use headsets, including monolingual English speakers.
  12. If you have any problems with your infrared headsets, please speak to the Interpreting Equipment Technician. Avoid interrupting the interpreter while he or she is interpreting.
  13. Make sure the participants handle the interpreting equipment appropriately and that it is returned when the meeting is over.

Thank you for your cooperation.Only fully LAUSD-sponsored meetings are covered.