Additional Information
Welcome to the Kentucky Department of Education's resource hub for educational interpreters and the school districts that provide interpreting services to students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Kentucky classrooms. Our goal is to support schools and interpreters in delivering the highest‑quality communication access for students across the Commonwealth.
These pages include essential documents, guidance, and tools relevant to educational interpreters and the districts that employ them to meet the communication needs outlined in students' Individual Education Programs (IEPs). You will also find links to licensure requirements, professional responsibilities, interpreter standards, and additional supports that promote effective, equitable access for all learners.
These
pages include essential documents, guidance, and tools relevant to educational
interpreters and the districts that employ them to meet the communication needs
outlined in students’ Individual Education Programs (IEPs). You will also find
links to licensure requirements, professional responsibilities, interpreter
standards, and additional supports that promote effective, equitable access for
all learners.
KSD Outreach Resources
Use the links below to explore these resources and learn more about the services available to support interpreters and the students they serve.
Interpreters
working in Kentucky schools must hold a valid license issued by the Kentucky
Board of Interpreters for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, ensuring interpreters
meet established performance and knowledge standards required for K–12
educational settings.
Educational
Interpreters in Kentucky
Educational
interpreters are essential in ensuring that students who are Deaf or Hard of
Hearing have full communication access in K–12 educational environments. They
facilitate communication among students, teachers, and school staff and play a
crucial role in supporting student engagement and academic success. The
Kentucky Department of Education provides resources, guidance, and technical
assistance to help interpreters and districts deliver high‑quality services aligned with student IEPs.
KSD Outreach Resources
Interpreter
Education Programs in Kentucky
Kentucky is home to two accredited interpreter education programs that prepare students to become skilled, ethical, and culturally competent ASL/English interpreters. These programs offer immersive training in ASL, Deaf culture, linguistics, and interpreting techniques supported by hands‑on practicum experiences.
The University of Louisville offers a Bachelor of Science in American Sign Language Interpreting Studies (ASLIS). The program focuses on developing ASL fluency, understanding Deaf culture and history, studying ASL linguistics, and building strong interpreting skills. Students participate in immersive practicum experiences that prepare them to interpret effectively in educational, healthcare, business, and community settings.
Eastern Kentucky University offers a nationally accredited Bachelor of Science in ASL & English Interpretation—the only CCIE‑accredited interpreter training program in Kentucky. The curriculum combines ASL and English interpretation training with Deaf studies, hands‑on practicums, and instruction from both Deaf and hearing faculty. EKU's program prepares interpreters who are competent, ethical, and skilled in serving Deaf, Deaf‑Blind, and Hard of Hearing individuals in a variety of professional settings, including K–12 education.