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Free Language Services

Osseo Area Schools is proud to provide language services throughout the district. These services are actively being shared to ensure families and staff are aware and have the resources and training to use them effectively. Please refer to the district's Language Access Plan for further information. 

Multilingual Specialists: Our district’s Multilingual Community and Communication Specialists support families with communication updates, interpreting and translation services, and other helpful resources and supports. This document further explains the role and how to contact to reach out to them: Multilingual Specialist flyer.

School and district websites: Translate any page on district and school websites by clicking the button (globe icon with EN) at the top right of all webpages within the district. 

Language services webpage via OsseoSchools.org/LanguageServices (this webpage): Learn about language services, find out how to connect with Multilingual Specialists, and view the district’s Language Access Plan.  

Multilingual learners webpage via OsseoSchools.org/MultilingualLearners: Find information about the Multilingual Learner Program (commonly known as EL), get details on how entering and exiting works, and answers to frequently asked questions. 

Multilingual Facebook pages

School and district e-newsletters: Translate any district or school e-newsletter by clicking the  button (translate icon with translate verbiage next to it) at top right corner of each e-newsletter. 

District and school handbooks: Each back-to-school handbook will include information about our district’s commitment to language services, family rights and how to find more information on what’s offered. 

We Glad You're Here posters and flyers: Each school’s main office area displays posters and flyers sharing that language services are offered. Community members can scan a QR code to learn more about their rights and the language services our district provides. 

I Need Assistance cards: Each school has small cards for families to pick up in their school's main office or at various events. These can be kept and shown to district and school staff anytime language services are needed.

Interpreters

Spoken interpretation (verbal): Interpretation from qualified interpreters is available for communications related to academic outcomes, progress, determinations, and placement of students in specialized programs and services, as well as parent/caregiver and teacher conferences, enrollment, informational meetings, and more. This is a free service.

  • In-person and video interpretation: Qualified interpreters are available for parent-teacher conferences, special education (IEP) meetings, and other school appointments. Families may request an interpreter through their school office or complete this form (coming soon!) to schedule an in-person or video/online interpreter.
  • On-demand phone interpretation: We use the Language Line to provide immediate support in over 200 languages. This service is available 24/7 for quick questions or phone calls with school staff. Either a family or staff can initiate a call. Direct dial numbers are: 
    • Español: 855-891-8364 
    • Lus Hmoob: 844-577-9549 
    • Soomaali: 855-891-5322 
    • Tiếng Việt: 855-891-8365
    • American Sign Language (ASL): Coming soon!
  • Virtual meetings: Interpretation can be added to virtual meetings (such as Google Meet or Microsoft Teams) by coordinating with school staff in advance.

Staff should refer to the Interpreting and Translating page on the staff portal, OsseoSchools.org/LanguageResources, for information about how to access and work with interpreters.

Translation

Written translation (text/documents) 

  • Vital school documents: We prioritize the professional translation of documents that affect a student's legal rights, health or safety.
  • District and school websites: Families can instantly translate any page on OsseoSchools.org by clicking the globe icon at the top right of the site.
  • Direct text messaging: Teachers and support staff use TalkingPoints to send text messages to families in their preferred language. This allows families to reply in their preferred language, and messages are then translated back into English.
  • E-newsletters: District and school e-newsletters include a translation feature at the top of each message. 

Staff should refer to the Interpreting and Translating page on the staff portal, OsseoSchools.org/LanguageResources, for information about how to request translated documents.