EdCircuit Staff 
Albany, NY – 7/11/2024 – As the 2024-2025 school year approaches, Lexikeet Language Services, a leader in translation and interpretation services in education, offers crucial tips for schools on which documents to translate to support non-English speaking families. Recognizing the communication challenges these families face, the company emphasizes the importance of providing accessible information to enhance student success and facilitate interactions between parents and educators.
“As a Portuguese interpreter, translator, and community engagement professional working with non-English speaking families in the United States, I understand the critical need for clear communication between schools and families,” says Katia Morris, CMO of Lexikeet. “Imagine not speaking English yet having to advocate for your children as a parent. Many parents may hesitate to reach out to the school for information. Being ahead and providing them with all the necessary information in their native language will empower them to advocate for their children.”
Lexikeet highlights eight crucial documents that schools should translate to help non-English-speaking families get settled for the new school year:
- Registration Packet: Keeping this packet updated and translated ensures the school has the most accurate and current information, facilitating a smooth and efficient registration process.
- School Calendar: Translating the school calendar into multiple languages ensures that every parent can plan and participate actively in school events, minimizing absences due to misunderstandings.
- Back-to-School Information: Providing welcome letters, orientation schedules, transportation information, and special instructions for the first day of school in multiple languages helps families feel comfortable starting the new year.
- Student & Parent Handbook: This document is vital for understanding and following school rules, especially for parents from different cultural backgrounds who may not fully grasp the American school system.
- Medical/Nurse-Consent Forms: Clear communication about health requirements helps to make sure all students receive appropriate care, promoting a supportive and inclusive environment and making the nurse’s job easier.
- Supply List: Translate the list and add pictures of each item to help parents identify them at the store and purchase exactly what your teachers need, reducing confusion.
- Permission Slips for Student Activities, Including Field Trips: Translating these slips helps parents understand the opportunities available to their children and can grant permission confidently.
- State and District-Wide Assessments: Clarifying the significance of assessments helps all families stay informed and engaged in their children’s educational journey.
“When schools translate these documents, they show a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all families in their community,” emphasizes Morris. “Accurate and culturally sensitive translations empower schools to build stronger relationships with non-English speaking families and support student success.”
For more information about Lexikeet and their educational translation services, please visit www.lexikeet.com.
About Lexikeet: Lexikeet is a leading provider of translation and interpretation services, specializing in educational translations. With years of experience and a commitment to inclusivity, Lexikeet empowers schools to communicate effectively with non-English speaking families, ensuring student success and fostering strong community relationships.
Subscribe to edCircuit to stay up to date on all of our shows, podcasts, news, and thought leadership articles.
