HPS Translator and Interpreter Diego Acosta says he and his Language Access colleagues do so much more to support and engage the Holyoke community than simply converting a message from one language to another.
“Sometimes, a translator is portrayed as someone who builds bridges between communities, but I also like to think of myself as someone who is in charge of opening doors and tearing down walls to provide the best opportunities for everyone to be involved with their child’s education,” he explains in this short video produced in recognition of International Translation Day celebrated annually around the globe on September 30. The video includes both English and Spanish.
Mr. Acosta is the newest member of the HPS Language Access team, having joined the district in August, bringing with him extensive experience as a Spanish teacher, translator, interpreter, and bilingual content editor for agencies in Western Mass and abroad. Marilyn Ramos and Sharina De León Bermúdez also serve as HPS translators and interpreters, while Linnette Clayton serves as manager of the Language Access Office.
“At a basic level, a translator is someone who converts a written message from one language to another while maintaining the original meaning, format, and tone,” Mr. Acosta said. “For this reason, you may say that our role as translators is to ensure that every Holyoke Public School document is converted from English to a specific target language. However, our role within the HPS community goes beyond this clear function, for it is a key element in ensuring that all families have equal opportunities to participate in their child’s education. We make sure that no one is left behind due to language barriers.”
Learn more about the essential roles translators and interpreters provide in this recently released video featuring Linnette Clayton and this recently released video featuring Sharina De León Bermúdez. These videos are provided in both English and Spanish.
Each year since 2017, the United Nations and the international community have recognized September 30 as International Translation Day to acknowledge the work of language professionals worldwide as their work plays an important role in bringing nations together, facilitating dialogue, understanding and cooperation, contributing to development, and strengthening world peace and security.
“We would love to hear and share stories from our families and staff about the many ways our Language Access team members have provided support and resources,” Mrs. Clayton said. “You can tell us your stories through this Google form, provided in both English and Spanish.”