Interpreter Policy Handbook

The interpreter plays a critical role in the success of students who are deaf or hard of hearing. In addition to providing the communication link for students to interact in classes, interpreters also make it possible for all students who are deaf or hard of hearing to gain access to all other school activities and services.

The intent of this Interpreter Handbook is to offer guidelines, clarify expectations and responsibilities of the interpreter, and give a basic understanding of some of the objectives, policies and procedures of Disability Resource Center (DRC). With the general information presented in this handbook and good judgment, interpreters should have a reliable guide as to what is expected of them. If you do not understand any of the material or if questions come up that are not covered here, please contact me. Contact information for DRC staff can be found on the last page of this handbook.

From time to time it may be necessary to update sections of the Interpreter Handbook. UALR interpreters will be notified of changes, and updated handbooks will be posted to the website (www.ualr.edu/disability).

We look forward to working with you here at UALR and hope you will enjoy it as well.

Sincerely,

Betsy Domingue, CT
Interpreter/Transcriber Coordinator

Copies of this material are also available upon request from DRC in the following formats:
Braille, large print, cassette, and diskette.

Disability Resource Center, including its grant-funded program (PEPNet-South), is a department of the
UALR Division of Educational and Student Services.

University of Arkansas at Little Rock
2801 S. University Ave.
Little Rock, AR 72204-1099
501.569.3143 (v/tty)

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Hiring and Schedule Procedures

Qualification Criteria

The following list outlines the minimum criteria to be hired as an interpreter at UALR:

Certification from RID or NAD, or

QAST level (Quality Assurance Screening Test); level III or higher preferred

Graduation from an accredited high school or possession of acceptable equivalency diploma (G.E.D.)

Graduate of an Interpreter Education Program preferred

Two years interpreting experience, preferably in the postsecondary educational arena

Hiring Procedure

DRC strives to provide quality access to all programs and services of the university. In the area of communications access, we endeavor to use the most qualified interpreters. When hiring, DRC will generally contact interpreters based on certification, starting with those nationally certified, continuing through QAST Levels 5-1, and equivalent levels from other states. Student preferences and seniority are also considered.

It is critical for UALR interpreters to commit to assignments accepted. If an interpreter is habitually tardy or absent, it can have an adverse effect on the student’s performance. Such a lack of commitment will impact the interpreter’s placement in future assignments.

Scheduling Procedure

DRC has no control over students adding, dropping, or withdrawing from classes. Scheduled hours could change at any time. If a full-time staff interpreters’ hours drops below an acceptable number, she/he will occasionally be required to replace hourly interpreters. In addition, on rare occasions, an interpreter with a higher certification level who loses a class may replace an interpreter with a lower level of certification. This will be done at the discretion of the Interpreter Coordinator. These replacements will in no way reflect negatively on the hourly interpreters.

Some classes, because of length or some other factor, may at the onset look as if they require two interpreters. However after the first few classes, it may be obvious that one interpreter can do the job. It is the responsibility of the interpreters to inform the Interpreter Coordinator of this situation. At this point the Interpreter Coordinator will determine if it would be best to alternate the two interpreters or to keep only one interpreter.

The interpreter is scheduled until the end of class. If an instructor goes past the designated time, or if a student needs to speak to the instructor after class, the interpreter may stay if her/his schedule allows. If the time goes over the scheduled class time, call DRC to inform the Interpreter Coordinator. If the interpreter has another class or assignment, she/he may leave at the end of the scheduled time. If the interpreter has to leave, and the instructor continues teaching, the interpreter should inform the instructor that she/he has to leave and inform the Interpreter Coordinator of the situation.

Only assignments that are scheduled through DRC will be paid. A student may ask an interpreter if she/he is available, but the interpreter must be given the assignment through Disability Resource Center. DRC maintains the right to move interpreters within their scheduled time. All interpreter requests for anything outside of regularly scheduled classes must come through DRC. Students must request an interpreter in advance from the Interpreter Coordinator using an Interpreter Request Form available in the DRC office (the exception is for interpreting that takes place immediately after class that runs over the scheduled class time). Students are made aware of this procedure at time of intake and via the student handbook.

Interpreters should not make other commitments that would force them to leave UALR early, or accept a UALR assignment if they know they must leave early.

During the semester, interpreters may be needed for such events as dorm meetings, lectures, and pep rallies. As these requests come in, the Interpreter Coordinator will contact interpreters to determine who is available.

Meetings

Group meetings with interpreters will be held at the beginning of each semester. These meetings are mandatory for any interpreter who wishes to maintain a schedule of interpreting classes. The interpreter will be compensated for these meetings at a two-hour rate.

There may be times when it is also necessary for the interpreter to meet individually with DRC staff. Attendance at these meetings is mandatory and part of the interpreter’s responsibility while working for UALR. There will be no compensation for these meetings, however they usually will be brief. Reasons for meetings may include, but are not limited to, discussion of performance; meeting between student, interpreter, and DRC staff; or, discussion of schedules for upcoming semesters. DRC will attempt to schedule these meetings at a time that is convenient to both parties.

Student Absences/Cancellations

If a student has not appeared at the beginning of class and has not indicated that he/she will be arriving late, the interpreter is required to wait 20 minutes outside of the classroom. After waiting the allotted time, the interpreter must report to DRC by phone or in person and inform them of his or her availability and indicate “no show” on his/her timesheet (e.g. AB Îno showâ 1.0 hour). If DRC is lacking an interpreter in another class at that time, the interpreter will be reassigned. [This should be reported on your timesheet as (student initials) Îno showâ, (student initials) 1.0 hour]. Failure to report to DRC will result in no payment for that class period. The one exception is classes that begin when DRC is closed (see hours, Addendum G).

If the student wishes to attend the class after the interpreter has left and the interpreter has not yet been reassigned and is still available, she/he will go to class with the student (e.g. if an interpreter is in the Student Center and a student informs the interpreter that she/he will attend the end of the class, the interpreter must interpret the remaining class time).

Interpreters are not to bill for assignments cancelled with at least 24 hours notice. Announcements in class are considered 24-hour notice. In daily classes the day before is considered 24 hours notice. Interpreters should also ask the professor for a class syllabus, and any classes designated in the class syllabus as canceled should be considered as notice.

If 24 hours notification is not possible, the interpreter will be paid for the assignment. However, if a documented good faith effort to contact the interpreter at least 24 hours in advance is made and DRC is still unable to contact her/him, the interpreter will not be paid for the assignment.

For evening classes after DRC closes and for weekend classes, the interpreter is free to leave after waiting the required time. Interpreters working evenings and weekends may consider exchanging phone numbers with students (if both agree) so that students may notify interpreters of an absence prior to class.

Substitutions

Consistency throughout the semester is very important. When an interpreter accepts classes for the semester, DRC expects the interpreter to maintain that schedule of classes throughout the semester. However it is understood that substitutions may be needed from time to time for emergencies, illness or doctor appointments.

Requesting a substitute in order to accept an off-campus interpreting assignment is not considered an appropriate request. Exceptions may be approved by DRC on a case-by-case basis.

When a substitute is needed, the interpreter is responsible for making a formal request by completing an Interpreter Substitution Form. The DRC office must receive the interpreter substitution request at least four full working days in advance. At that time DRC will be responsible for finding substitutes. For emergencies and illness, notify the Interpreter Coordinator as soon as possible.

Chronic absences may result in dismissal for the remainder of the semester. Reliability will be a consideration when filling classes in future semesters.

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Team Approach

UALR is committed to academic achievement for its diverse student population. DRC, the student, faculty, notetaker, transcriber and interpreter work together as an educational team for the purpose of creating a successful learning environment. Each member of the team has a vital and specific role. In order to create an equitable learning experience, all team members must actively fulfill their respective roles.

Interpreter:

follow the RID Code of Ethics

interpret lectures, discussions, movies and all asides in the classroom setting

provide interpreting services to the best of her/his ability

keep all information regarding interpreting assignments confidential

facilitate communication between persons who are hearing and persons who are deaf or hard of hearing as accurately as possible

show up on time for assignments

be professional in all aspects of the interpreting assignment

dress appropriately wearing clothes that contrast with skin color and are not distracting to the student

prepare for class by reviewing textbooks, handouts and movies ahead of time

if student is absent or late, stay 20 minutes unless notified otherwise

remain outside of the classroom until the student arrives. This will lessen any disruption to the classroom if the student is absent and the interpreter has to leave

any problems with the student should be discussed directly with her/him before coming to talk to a DRC staff person

contact the Interpreter Coordinator with comments or concerns.

Student:

complete the intake process with a DRC staff person

for interpreter requests outside of regularly scheduled class times, complete the Interpreter Request Form two weeks prior to the event (or as soon as the need for an interpreter is discovered)

on the first day of class or in any new situation, identify yourself to the interpreter

be on time for all classes, labs and meetings

sit in a place that provides the best distance, lighting, background, and angle for seeing the interpreter

direct questions relating to the class materials to the professor, not the interpreter

personal conversations with the interpreter should not occur during the class

complete academic advising and registration for classes as soon as possible, especially if using interpreter services

notify the Interpreter/Transcriber Coordinator of your schedule at least 10 business days prior to the first day of class (students who do will be given priority when scheduling services).

pick up notetaker flyers and faculty memos to give the instructor the first day of class

any problems with the interpreter should be discussed directly with her/him before coming to talk to a DRC staff person

notify the Interpreter Coordinator if the interpreter does not come to class

inform the interpreter of any planned absences, if the class is cancelled, if there will be a video shown in class, or if the student will be making a presentation

be responsible and respectful in all actions regarding support services

know and abide by all UALR and DRC policies, rules and regulations.

DRC:

assist students in gaining equal access to all UALR services, classes and events

continue to enhance services and access to programs

provide counseling for students

provide qualified interpreters to students who require this service

help students determine which support services are appropriate and explain how these services will be provided

assist faculty and staff members in working with students

provide advocacy and support to students in working with professors

provide students with a faculty memo to give their professors

follow all laws that apply to serving students on a college campus

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Responsibilities

Ethics and Confidentiality

Interpreters are expected to adhere to the RID Code of Ethics. They are to provide interpreting services to the best of their ability and not allow personal feelings to interfere in the interpreting process. When interpreters socialize with students outside of the classroom, they should keep all information about interpreting assignments confidential, regardless of how inconsequential the information may seem. For reference, the RID Code of Ethics is provided at the end of this handbook in Addendum C.

See Addendum D for suggested phrases to maintain confidentiality.

First Day of Class

It is important to start out the semester on the right foot. Here are some recommendations for the first day of class:

Arrive ten to fifteen minutes early to introduce yourself to the instructor and student.

Ask the student his/her preferred mode of communication.

Use the team approach to best establish preferred placement within the classroom (i.e. standing by the board, sitting near the desk).

Obtain a syllabus in order to be better prepared.

After class has been dismissed, solicit feedback from the instructor. Encourage continued open communication throughout the semester.

Promptly communicate any changes in room or instructor to the Interpreter Coordinator.

Messages/Exchange of Information

We ask that all interpreters who work for UALR provide updated contact information to the Interpreter Coordinator to facilitate communication. The Interpreter Coordinator will ask for this information during the interpreter meetings at the beginning of the fall and spring semesters. If your email address, pager, home, or wireless number changes in the interim, please notify the Interpreter Coordinator. This information is needed for hourly interpreters to receive memos, possible schedule changes, and any non-emergency phone messages.

In case of an emergency phone call, every possible effort will be made to contact you wherever you are on campus. Therefore, it is important that the office know if your scheduled class has been cancelled or changed location.

All contact information for DRC staff can be found in Addendum G of this handbook.

Interpreter/Student Interaction

Interpreters should not have conversations with deaf students or other students during class time. Visitation should be done before and after the class. If another student in the class asks for information about what the interpreter is doing, the interpreter should politely let the student know she/he is not able to discuss it during class, but could answer before or after the class. When answering questions about interpreting from faculty and other students, the interpreter should provide only general information, keeping in mind the importance of confidentiality regarding the student who is deaf.

Interpreters should be careful when talking with students (both deaf and hearing) before and after class. Interpreters should not discuss anything related to the class. Comments made may influence the students’ class work and/or their original ideas. As a result, the work the students provide is not 100% their own.

Team Interpreting

Due to duration or intensity, some classes require two interpreters. Team interpreters should support one another on assignments. At all times, both interpreters are “on duty” and should not take care of personal business until there is a break. While one interpreter is signing/voicing, the other interpreter should be attentive, supportive, and ready to feed information when needed. Cues for requesting assistance should be agreed upon prior to the start of the assignment. The task of interpreting should be equally distributed between both team members whenever possible.

When in a team interpreting situation, it is only necessary for one interpreter to be present on test days. The team should decide which one will interpret on a given test day (e.g., alternating days or one interpreter taking all test days). If no decision can be made, the Interpreter Coordinator will make the final decision. When a staff interpreter is in the class, the staff interpreter will interpret on test days unless otherwise arranged.

On non-test days, both team interpreters are expected to stay until the end of the designated time. Because of the interpreter shortage, exceptions may be made. Interpreters should make these arrangements in advance with the Interpreter Coordinator. If an interpreter does leave before the class or assignment ends, she/he should bill only for time worked.

If a class is longer than an hour and 15 minutes, and DRC has not been able to find a team interpreter, the interpreter may then request to take a break. The Interpreter Coordinator will clarify this with the instructor and the interpreter.

Interpreting Videos

DRC is making every effort to ensure that increasing numbers of videos on campus are captioned. If a video is captioned and this is the communication mode the student prefers, the interpreter is not responsible for interpreting the video. If the video is not captioned, the interpreter is responsible for interpreting the video to the best of her/his ability.

The interpreter should refer the professor to the DRC office for information on accommodations for videos. Captioning films on campus is a very lengthy process. DRC will attempt to identify videos to caption several months in advance. Interpreters should not give the impression that a video can be captioned in a short amount of time. Interpreters should inform DRC of any concerns related to videos in the classroom as soon as possible.

Dress Code

Although there is no formal dress code at UALR, Disability Resource Center supports the RID code of ethics regarding appropriate and professional dress. Interpreters should dress in a manner that is consistent with the general dress of instructors on campus. This does not include sweats, shirts with holes, mini skirts, mini shorts, or jeans that are worn out, have holes or are frayed in any manner. Interpreters should wear clothes that contrast with skin color and are not distracting.

Pagers and Wireless Phones

Interpreters should take care of personal business at times other than during assignments with UALR. Because pagers and wireless phones can interfere with the quality of interpreting services and disrupt the setting, interpreters are expected to turn off their pagers and set their wireless phones to inaudible rings (or turn it off if this option is not available) during the assignment. Interpreters may check their pagers/phones if a break occurs, but responding to calls or pages during an assignment is not permitted.

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Miscellaneous

Evaluation

The Interpreter Coordinator will disseminate several evaluations during the semester: student evaluation of the interpreter, faculty evaluation of the interpreter, and interpreter evaluation of the semester. Student and faculty evaluations will assist the interpreter in identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Student evaluations of the interpreter will be administered at mid-term and near the end of each semester. Faculty evaluations of the interpreter will be administered near the end of each semester. DRC will attempt to provide evaluation summaries in a timely manner. Interpreters, as part of the DRC team, will complete an interpreter evaluation of the semester in order to provide valuable feedback to the Interpreter Coordinator for future planning.

Due Process

If DRC receives a complaint about an interpreting situation from students, faculty or staff, the Interpreter Coordinator will meet with the interpreter involved. If a complaint about the same problem is reported more than once, the interpreter involved will meet with the Interpreter Coordinator and the Director of DRC. If this specific complaint continues, the decision may be made to terminate the interpreter’s services. Depending on the nature or seriousness of the complaint, a decision may be made to terminate services at an earlier stage in this process.

Relationships

As a UALR interpreter, you will interact with students, faculty, staff and the community. Relationships with a variety of people will inevitably develop, and positive professional relationships and networking within the profession are strongly encouraged. However certain personal relationships with students are unacceptable within the context of a working relationship.

Interpreters will not be placed in assignments that could threaten to compromise their commitment to the Code of Ethics. Examples of this include but are not limited to interpreting for family members and romantic interests. As stated in the RID Standard Practice Papers, “The relative may have attitudinal or emotional issues that could affect objectivity and impartiality and prevent accurate communication.” The deaf person’s right to privacy and confidentiality could easily be compromised.

Any questions about the ethics of a relational situation should be directed to the Interpreter Coordinator.

Workshops

UALR and DRC promote higher learning opportunities not only for their students, but for their interpreters as well. All interpreters are encouraged to pursue certification and continue professional development by their involvement with local, state and national organizations that support the profession of interpreting. Information about local, state and national workshops is maintained by the Interpreter Coordinator and is available to all UALR interpreters.

Interpreters are encouraged to attend all campus-wide staff development activities and to take advantage of any professional development opportunities offered at UALR. Interpreters are strongly encouraged to attend interpreting-related and deafness-related workshops, in-service training and events hosted by PEPNet-South as well as other professional seminars, workshops and conventions sponsored by agencies outside the university.

Nationally certified interpreters are expected to maintain their certification through participation in the RID Certification Maintenance Program. All other interpreters are expected to maintain their Quality Assurance Screening Test certification. Interpreters, regardless of their certification level, are encouraged to join professional organizations, attend workshops, and keep abreast of issues, standards and practices within the interpreting profession.

Health Tips

Interpreters are encouraged to maintain good health habits on a routine basis. Attention to diet, exercise, and positions when seated or standing can help prevent syndromes associated with overuse (cumulative trauma disorder).

Just as an athlete warms up before engaging in physical activity and cools down afterward, interpreters should physically prepare themselves with simple exercises for a few minutes before interpreting, during the day, and at the end of the day. One such exercise involves gently moving each wrist up and down and from side to side. Another is a handshake exercise, to be done with a partner. Another suggestion is to squeeze a soft tennis ball, or manipulate Silly Putty. When seated for interpreting, sit straight in the chair. Do not cross your legs. This helps prevent stress on the back and shoulders. Other interpreters have suggested that prior to interpreting in a cold classroom, running hands under warm water or a hand dryer is helpful. Wearing thin gloves (liners) after interpreting can also be effective.

Note: The above information comes from a presentation by Chiropractor Peter Biondi (Franklin Park) at the Illinois Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf Convention, June 7, 1986.

Random Observations

Random observations of each interpreter will take place a various times throughout the course of the semester. Observations may or may not be announced in advance. The purpose of these observations is to document the interpreter’s attendance, promptness, professionalism and to note whether the interpreter is staying in his/her role while in the classroom setting.

IEP Students

DRC supports the Interpreter Education Program by allowing students to observe classroom interpreters as part of their practicum experience. The Interpreter Coordinator will attempt to inform interpreters ahead of time when a student will be in the class. The practicum student will be instructed to identify himself or herself to the interpreter. The interpreter has no responsibility to the practicum student. However if the student asks questions, and the interpreter has time to respond, it would be of great benefit to the student (future interpreter) to answer appropriately. Practicum students are required to follow all aspects of the UALR Interpreter Policy and the RID Code of Ethics. If the practicum student fails to do so, the interpreter should talk with the student to resolve the problem. If the problem persists, the interpreter should talk with the Interpreter Coordinator, who will then speak with the student and/or the practicum supervisor.

Inclement Weather

If the weather appears hazardous, please refer to the inclement weather policy for UALR. Information regarding school closings will also be posted on the UALR website,
www.ualr.edu.

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Payment/Benefits

Pay Scale

RID

NAD

QAST

Certification	Hourly	Certification	Hourly	Level	Hourly
Multiple	$34.00	5	$33.00	5	$24.00
CI or CT	$33.00	4	$29.00	4	$20.00
IC/TC/RSC	$26.00	3	$25.00	3	$14.00
IC/TC	$26.00			2	$13.50
IC/TC	$26.00			1	$12.50

Increases in pay rate due to the interpreter successfully achieving a higher
certification level will be implemented at the beginning of the next pay cycle.
The Interpreter Coordinator must first be provided with written confirmation
from the testing organization.

Class Meets	Actual Time	Billing Time
MWF/MW/TR	50 min	1 hour
MW/TR	1 hr 15 min	1.5 hours
once a week*	2 hr 40 min	3 hours

For other classes that meet once a week (for example, a 2 credit hour class), round the actual time up to the nearest quarter hour. For example, if a class is scheduled for 2 hours and 10 minutes, the interpreter would bill 2.25 hours.

If an interpreter is going to be late for a class, she/he should inform DRC or the Interpreter Coordinator and arrive as soon as possible. Interpreters should only bill for time worked, to the nearest quarter hour (e.g., if 5 minutes late for a 50 minute class, bill for .75 hour (45 minutes).

Time Sheets

Time sheets must be filled out properly and turned in on time:

by 5:00 p.m. on the 15th and last day of every month, or

the Friday before if the time period ends on the weekend or on a holiday

It is the interpreter’s responsibility to fill the time sheets out correctly.
If there are any questions, the interpreter should feel free to come to the Interpreter
Coordinator for assistance. Submitting time sheets filled out incorrectly or
turned in late will result in a delay of payment of at least one pay period.

Time sheets can be hand-delivered, faxed, or emailed. If you would like to email
your time sheet, you may download the digital version of the time sheet at Interpreter/Transcriber Timesheet

See Addendum A for an example of a filled-in time sheet. See Addendum B for a list of time sheet due dates for this semester.

Misrepresenting time worked is considered stealing and will result in immediate
action, possibly including suspension or termination of services.

Checks/Direct Deposit

Interpreters must complete a direct deposit request form (available in the DRC office).
Checks are deposited on the 15th and the last day of each month. DRC is not responsible for mailing checks or direct deposit pay stubs. Unclaimed direct deposit pay stubs will be shredded at the end of each semester.

Pay stub information is available on the web at www.boss.ualr.edu.

Benefits

Parking
- All interpreters who are not currently enrolled as a student of UALR will receive a card to utilize for parking on campus once classes have been assigned and an appropriate lot has been identified.
- All interpreters who are currently enrolled as a student of UALR will receive a pass generated by DRC which will allow them to park in the deck free of charge or a hangtag allowing them or park in metered lots free of charge. (This is still in negotiation. One option will be decided upon, not both.)
Health Services (there may be a charge for some of these).
- Access to nurses and consulting physician (free)
- Some prescriptions (free)
- Consultation, smoking cessation, cholesterol checks and other evaluations
- Flu shots
Fitness Center membership (free)

Faculty Staff Discount (pending)
- UALR Bookstore
- Artspree, Theater Department, and Music Department performances
- Athletic Events

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Addendum A

UALR Contract Interpreter Time Sheet

Interpreter: Ann Interpreter	Pay Period Ending: 06/15/03
SS#: 123-45-6789	Are you are UALR student? No
Date for completed: 06/15/03

Date	Day	Daily Hours	Student Breakdown: Student Initials (hours)
1
2
3
4	M	3	MM (3)
5	T	2	DD (1), RM (1)
6
7
8	F	1	OO (1)
9
10
11	M	4
12
13
14
15
	Total Hours:	10	Total Student Hours:	10

*The total number of daily hours and the total number of student breakdown hours should be equal. Filling out your time sheet incorrectly will result in delay of payment. Time sheets are due on the 15th and the last days of the month.

I hereby certify that this document is a true statement of my time and attendance during the above stated pay period.

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Addendum B

Payroll and Timesheet Due Dates

TIMESHEETS DUE	PAY DATES
08/15/05 (Fri)	08/31/05 (Wed)
08/31/05 (Wed)	09/15/05 (Thurs)
09/15/05 (Thurs)	09/30/05 (Fri)
09/30/05 (Fri)	10/14/05 (Fri)
10/14/05 (Fri)	10/31/05 (Mon)
10/31/05 (Mon)	11/15/05 (Tues)
11/15/05 (Tues)	11/30/05 (Wed)
*Pending	12/15/05 (Tues)
*Pending	12/30/05 (Friday)

* Please pay special attention to these dates due to university holidays and
short pay periods that will effect payroll processing.

Drop time sheets in Pamela Wilson’s mailbox in DRC, fax (501.569.8068), or email
to pjwilson@ualr.edu.

If timesheets are late, payment will not occur on the above dates.

ALL Interpreters must have direct deposit of paychecks.

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Addendum C

RID Code of Ethics

Interpreters/transliterators shall render the message faithfully, always conveying the content and spirit of the speaker, using language most readily understood by the person(s) whom they serve.
Interpreters/transliterators shall not counsel, advise or interject personal opinions.
Interpreters/transliterators shall accept assignments using discretion with regard to skill, setting, and the consumers involved.
Interpreters/transliterators shall request compensation for services in a professional and judicious manner.
Interpreters/transliterators shall function in a manner appropriate to the situation.
Interpreters/transliterators shall strive to further knowledge and skills through participation in workshops, professional meetings, interaction with professional colleagues, and reading of current literature in the field.
Interpreters/transliterators, by virtue of membership or certification by the RID, Inc., shall strive to maintain high professional standards in compliance with the Code of Ethics.

The new NAD-RID Code of Professional Conduct is available at www.rid.org.

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Addendum D

Suggested Phrases to Maintain Confidentiality:

I am not at liberty to say.
I am sorry, that information is confidential.
I am not sure.
I don’t know.
I only see the student in class.
I don’t know the student personally.
I am not able to discuss that information.
I can’t answer that question, but I would be happy to transcribe if you would like to ask the student directly.
The student could probably answer that better than I could.
DRC could probably answer that question for you. Let me give you their phone number.
I am sorry, I am not able to step out of my role of transcribing during class time.
If you have concerns you would like to address concerning the transcriber in
your class you might want to talk to DRC. Let me give you their phone number.

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Addendum E

Disability Laws in Postsecondary Education

Individuals with disabilities are entitled by law to equal access to postsecondary
programs. There are two laws that protect persons with disabilities in postsecondary
education: The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Pub. L. No. 93-112, as amended) and
the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990(Pub. L. No. 1001-336).

The Rehabilitation Act
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is generally regarded as the first civil rights
legislation on the national level for people with disabilities. Section 504 of
The Rehabilitation Act is a program access statute. It prohibits discrimination
on the basis of disability in any program or activity offered by an entity or
institution receiving federal funds.

Section 504 states (as amended): “No otherwise qualified person with a disability in the United States…shall, solely on the basis of disability, be denied access to, or the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity provided by any institution receiving federal financial assistance.” Under
Section 504, institutions were required to appoint and maintain at least one
person to coordinate its efforts to comply with the requirements of Section 504
(Section 504 Coordinator). This individual or office has the ongoing responsibility
of assuring that the institution/agency/ organization practices nondiscrimination
on the basis of disability and should be included in any grievance procedures
developed to address possible instances of discrimination brought against the
institution. At UALR the established office for student services is Disability
Resource Center, 2801 South University Avenue, Little Rock, AR 72204. In addition,
at UALR a separate ADA/Section 504 Coordinator has been appointed whose duties
include issues related to employees with disabilities (inquire at DRC).

The Americans with Disability Act (ADA)
The ADA is a federal civil rights statute that prohibits discrimination against
people with disabilities, and cover the following areas: employment, state and
local government activities, public transportation, public accommodations, and
telecommunications. The ADA provides additional protection for persons with disabilities
in conjunction with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The ADA is designed to remove
barriers, which prevent qualified individuals with disabilities from enjoying
the same opportunities that are available to persons without disabilities.

The ADA in Relation to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Institutions that receive federal funds (such as UALR) are covered under Section
504. The ADA does not supplant Section 504, but those situations where the ADA
provides greater protection the ADA standards apply. Therefore, most postsecondary
institutions must adhere to both the Rehabilitation Act and The Americans with
Disabilities Act.

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Addendum F

Academic Calendar 2005 Fall Semester

August
22 Classes begin
26 Last day to register, add, or drop a class
27 First Saturday class

September
3 Labor Day holiday, no classes, University Offices Closed
6 Classes resume

November
11 Last day to drop a class and receive a final grade of ãWä 23 All classes end
at 5 pm for Thanksgiving Holiday
28 Classes resume

December
6 Last day to withdraw from classes, last day of classes
7 Evening finals begin, Consultation Day
8 Day finals begin
12 Evening finals end
14 Day finals end
15 Commencement
16 Grades due by noon

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Addendum G

DRC Staff and Office Hours

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Updated 5.22.2008

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Disability Resource Center

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