Skip To Main Content

Translation Resources

WNESU is strengthening how we support families who prefer a language other than English. Use the guidance below to choose the right approach and to request support when needed.

Quick option for everyday messages: ParentSquare

ParentSquare can automatically translate messages into a family’s preferred language if the family has selected their language in ParentSquare.

Use ParentSquare auto-translation for:

  • Routine updates (reminders, logistics, general classroom/school news)
  • Short, plain-language messages

Tips:

  • Keep messages short and clear (plain language improves translation quality).
  • Avoid acronyms, slang, and long paragraphs.
  • If a message is complex or high-stakes, request support instead of relying only on auto-translation.

When you should request translation or interpretation

  • Request support for anything important, complex, or sensitive, including:
  • Enrollment/registration and required forms
  • Health and safety communications
  • Attendance concerns and truancy-related communication
  • Discipline or conduct-related communication
  • Special education / 504 meetings and documents
  • Student support meetings where decisions or services are discussed
  • Any situation where a family cannot participate meaningfully without language support

Request language support (translation or interpretation)

Primary contact: Margret Davis (ELL)
Email: margret.davis@wnesu.com

When you contact Margret, include:

  • Student name and school (if applicable)
  • Family preferred language (if known)
  • What you need: translation (written) or interpretation (spoken)
  • The document/link to translate or meeting date/time + format (phone/in-person/virtual)
  • Deadline / urgency

Urgent or same-day needs (especially health/safety): Contact your school office/administrator right away in addition to emailing Margret.

Vermont ParentNotices (TransACT) templates

For common school notices, start with Vermont’s TransACT ParentNotices library. These templates can save time and help keep language consistent.

Recommended steps:

  1. Self-enroll in ParentNotices (TransACT) if you don’t already have access.
  2. Use ParentNotices templates for common notices when they match your situation.
  3. If you need help using ParentNotices, register for a live webinar.

Self-Enroll in ParentNotices (TransACT) Register for a ParentNotices Webinar

What not to do

  • Do not ask students or siblings to interpret important communication.
  • Avoid relying on untrained staff to interpret sensitive topics.
  • Do not paste confidential student or staff information into unapproved tools.

Machine translation and AI (use with caution)

Machine translation can be helpful for informal, low-stakes communication—but it is not perfect.

  • Do not use AI tools (including Gemini) as the final translation for official or high-stakes communication.
  • If you use machine translation to draft something quickly, treat it as a starting point and request support when accuracy matters.