Step-Up for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth

This program advocates improvement of the educational experience for DHH youths by challenging the traditional role of language interpreters in educational settings. The work and decisions of interpreters make a significant impact on the school experiences of DHH students.

Language acquisition and translation should not be the only goal while interpreting. Interpreters are encouraged to do more and Step-up for the DHH students, showing them how to “navigate the system”. Dr. Smith holds several workshops and talks each year nationwide to promote this idea and provide professional development that encourages interpreters to seek opportunities to create equity. One of the goals of this program is to produce a series of educational materials such as video or other forms of media for the interpreters to use so they can enhance the educational experience of DHH youths. Ultimately, Dr. Smith would like to see the academia reevaluated for the deaf educational training for interpreters and change the curriculum to better serve DHH students in our community.

Facebook: www.facebook.com/stepupforDHHYouth
Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=IiF74W3C4ng

Program Director:

Dr. Melissa Smith