FAQS about the Transition to the National Certification

How did all this come about?

• The KCDHH created a task force (Fall 2009) to research the pros and cons of transitioning to the national certification. This task force conducted two different surveys. The results indicated that the majority of the interpreters are able and ready to take the national interpreter certification test. Therefore the task force made the recommendation to establish a task force charged with setting a timeline for the transition to the national certification.

Is KCDHH implementing a new performance test?

• No, we are renaming KQAS to KS Interpreters Diagnostic Assessment (KIDA). This tool (KIDA) will be used to provide feedback about the strengths and weaknesses of the interpreting but will not issue a score or determine a certification.

I have a KQAS level 1, 2, or 3. Now what do I do?

• You will have until September 30, 2014 to take the KQAS to achieve a level 4 or 5, or to earn a certification through the NIC.

Time is running out. I have a KQAS level 3, but do not have a bachelor’s degree so am unable to take the NIC. Now what?

• Interpreters are encouraged to investigate the Alternative Pathway for Eligibility program offered by RID as another way to pursue national certification. (Refer to www.rid.org, and then search for “testing/testing process.”)

It is 2014, I’ve just graduated from an ITP and I have a KQAS level 3. What do I do?

• No doubt your ITP has prepared you for the KS Registry process and you will need to pursue the NIC.

I have a KQAS Level 4 or 5 now. Will I continue to hold that certification after January 1, 2015?

• As long as you continue to earn CEUs in accordance with the KCDHH CEU policy, your certification will be valid and recognized in Kansas.

Currently, I hold a KQAS certification with two different levels—KQAS 3 and KQAS 4. Does this mean my certification will be retained because of my level 4?

• When you hold two different KQAS levels, KCDHH looks at the lower number to determine your status. Since your lower level is the KQAS 3, and a level 3 will not be recognized as certified, you will be required to either re-test for this portion of the KQAS to achieve a KQAS 4 or 5 OR a certification through the NIC. Please remember the timeline for these changes and plan accordingly.

I have KQAS 4 in transliterating, but no score in interpreting. What should I do?

• To be registered as a certified interpreter in the state of Kansas, you will need a score in both interpreting and transliterating. As a result, you will need to complete and earn the KQAS 4 or 5 in both interpreting and transliterating OR you will need to achieve a certification through the NIC.

I hold a Missouri certification and am registered with KCDHH as a certified interpreter. Will that continue after January 1, 2015?

• This issue falls under the Registry guidelines which will be reviewed.

What if there is a flood of interpreters wanting to take the KQAS at the last minute and there is no more time slots available?

• You have until September 2014 to take the test.  It will be offered on a first come, first serve basis, so therefore plan accordingly.

Where do I find the training to take the NIC?

• www.rid.org has prep materials for sale on their website as well as other resources.

• KCDHH lending library has an NIC preparatory DVD available

• Additional resources can be found by searching the internet.

Do K–12 educational interpreters need to follow this?

• If the educational interpreter holds EIPA certification and works in the K-12 educational setting, they do not need to worry about this change.  If the educational interpreter also works in the community, these transition changes will apply to you.

Can the state require me to become certified through the KQAS or the NIC?

• No, at this time the state cannot require you to become certified.  The state requires KCDHH to maintain a Registry of interpreters and the courts require interpreters to be listed on the registry. Pursuant to K.S.A. 75-5393 (b) All interpreters for the deaf, hard of hearing and speech impaired, secured under the provisions of K.S.A. 75-4355 (a) through (d), shall be certified by or registered with the Kansas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing or an agency designated by the commission. To read the statutes in its entirety go to the Kansas Legislature web site at www.kslegislature.org.  You will see on the top of the page the link Statute.  After this page opens enter the Statute number.  However, interpreting is a recognized profession and most agencies have certification requirements.

The NIC is an expensive test and the cost is an issue for me.

• You will have three (3) years to plan to take the NIC.

• Testing fees are a cost of doing business.

Will there be a testing site for the national certification available in Kansas?

• KCDHH is hoping to be a registered site for the national certification.

Will KCDHH keep me posted on the progress of this transition?

• KCDHH will do its best to keep everyone in the loop by posting information related to the transition and training opportunities on various list servs, and the KAI-RID website.