I recently learned about a shortage of funding that may may mean a loss of sign-language interpreters at Utah colleges. I am one of 25 deaf students at Salt Lake Community College. I am worried because I might lose the interpreters because of the lack of funds.
Without them, I will not receive full educational benefit from my classes. I will not get a good job in the future unless I earn a degree. I am also concerned about the interpreters' livelihoods.Salt Lake Community College is a wonderful school. I started my education here last August. I have interpreters in my classes. I have learned a lot as my interpreters help me understand what my teachers are saying. I am an enthusiastic learner. I love it.
When I was a student at East High School from 1976 to 1978, I had no interpreters. I had an oral program. I didn't learn well because I didn't understand the teachers. I was behind in school.
Sen. Howard A. Stephenson, Rep. John E. Swallow, Utah State Legislature, Gov. Mike Leavitt, Rep. Merrill Cook, R-Utah and Sens. Robert Bennett and Orrin Hatch: Please help.
Please fund the Disability Resource Center so director Kay Fulton can provide interpreters at SLCC. We would appreciate it.
Lisa Roush
Sandy