Every day, people seek connection and belonging through various forms of communication, but language barriers are common making it challenging to find community. It is estimated that more than half-million people in the US use American Sign Language to communicate. One such person is Lisa Scott, an Edmond Memorial High School American Sign Language interpreter, who was nominated for the Edmond Public Schools BELONGING Award. This award is given to three teachers around the district who value helping students find a sense of belonging at school.
“I have worked for Edmond Public Schools as an interpreter for approximately four years,” Scott said. “We have a community of really good-hearted people. The students and staff are a blessing to work with, quick to smile and quick to offer assistance.”
Scott has several people in her life who have a hearing disability, including her daughter, cousin and her best friend. Communication can be difficult when someone has some degree of hearing impairment, and Scott has made it her goal to facilitate connections between hearing and deaf students.
“I want to be the bridge in communication between people who use sign language and those who do not,” Scott said. “Having equal access is important, and I wanted to be a part of that process. I think that goes back to the kindness of my Edmond Memorial co-workers. I appreciate them very much.”
Emily Kifer is another interpreter at EMHS who works alongside Scott. Both had students who were able to communicate with each other and the teacher to get the assigned lessons done on time.
“She is someone who is valuable in understanding different perspectives and empathizing with others no matter who they are, what their role is, or what’s happening around her,” Kifer said. “The impact she has made for accessibility for the students with hearing loss is immeasurable. “
Carol Campbell is one teacher who has had the opportunity to collaborate with Scott. As a classroom teacher, Campbell worked extensively with Scott to ensure the inclusion of all students..
“[Scott] worked individually with her student as well as coordinating it with [Kifer] and me,” Campbell said. “She’s very professional; she’s very friendly. She’s very funny and takes care of her students, and I just really enjoy being with her.”
Sign language does not receive much recognition in the world, but people are beginning to take notice thanks to people like Scott and other advocates of the deaf community.
“There has been much more exposure to sign language and deaf people, whether that be on the news watching emergency situations or the TV shows with deaf actors,” Scott said. “This has helped people understand, and understanding brings a willingness to embrace and accept people. Being an interpreter helps me see this first hand.”
Being able to communicate and express thoughts and emotions to others in a way that someone would understand can make all the difference. Scott helps students find a place in the school and creates a better environment for the school overall.
Contact Wes Matlock at [email protected]
