Board approves $406,410 contract for ASL interpreters and a speech-language pathologist

Fort Wayne Community Schools trustees approved a contract with Stepping Stones Group for $406,410 to supply three American Sign Language interpreters and one speech-language pathologist for the 2026–27 school year.

Julie presented the recommendation and said the contract will be paid from the Education Fund and the special education 611 grant. Julie introduced Jen Birning, the district’s director of special education, who was available to answer questions about provider competition and certification requirements.

When asked whether other vendors compete for this work, Birning said the district works with any contractor who can provide quality candidates and that Stepping Stones has been used for the past four to five years. Board members asked about local workforce pathways; staff pointed to Southside’s sign-language program as a feeder and explained interpreters typically need an Educational Interpreter Performance Assessment (EIPA) score of 3.5 and to complete annual continuing education units.

Board members moved, seconded and approved the contract by voice vote.

District staff also noted an approximate hourly rate range for positions discussed at roughly $40–$50 per hour and encouraged students and community members interested in interpreting careers to pursue certification.