Sallie M. Bruno, Site Coordinator
Long Island Regional Interpreter Training Site
Suffolk County Community College
Riverhead Building, Room 335
533 College Road
Selden, New York 11784-2889
brunos@sunysuffolk.edu

We are about to embark on a new phase of educational interpreting in New York State. This phase, I believe, will bring us
the recognition we are due as an integral, professional part of a child's education. Many of us have been working toward this
goal for a long time.

However, change can sometimes make us uncomfortable. As much as we want change, have worked toward change, when it
finally arrives, we are a little shy about stepping out of our comfort zone. That's to be expected. Remember that within each
challenge is an opportunity.

I believe the New York State Department of Education with this grant written by the National Technical Institute for the Deaf
(NTID) and Monroe County #1 BOCES is offering us the best and most positive way to keep pace in our burgeoning field.
We are being offered the opportunity to have our knowledge and skills assessed. From that assessment, interpreters will be
given a plan of workshops and courses to better accomplish current jobs as well as to prepare for the New York State
Educational Interpreter Certification. Because New York State believes in the need for qualified educational interpreters, the
assessment and workshops will be given at no cost to yourselves or your districts.

This is an incredible time for us. However, there are always rough spots in new endeavors. I know that there will be confusion
and misconceptions along the way. What I ask from all of you is your patience and cooperation as we set out working toward
this goal together. I feel privileged to be part of this new facet of growth for educational interpreters. I look forward to meeting
and working with you as we learn from each other.

If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sallie M. Bruno, Site Coordinator

Back to the Long Island Region web site

Page created July 24, 2000