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Long Beach Unified parents highlight need for better language access and interpretation
Summary
During a listening session, parents and staff described language barriers to participation and noted that interpretation devices and dedicated interpreters are essential to include Spanish‑speaking families in district decision‑making.
Dr. Brown and parents emphasized that interpretation and language services are critical for meaningful family participation.
"Tenemos aquí dispositivos de interpretación," Dr. Brown told attendees as the district offered interpretation devices to Spanish speakers. Multiple parents described language as a barrier: one parent said, "No hablo inglés muy bien, pero eso no me detiene," and asked for more consistent interpretation and outreach in Spanish so families can participate beyond basic enrollment tasks.
Speakers recommended practical steps including consistent on‑site interpreters, translated materials, facilitating connections between bilingual facilitators and school staff, and outreach that uses phone calls and community partners to invite families. The board acknowledged the concerns and said the district will bring these themes into future planning.
