FCPS highlights multilingual supports: translators, ambassadors and in-person application help

Rose Santiago, director of multilingual gifted and talented services, told the Innovative Programs Showcase livestream that Fayette County Public Schools provides translation and interpretation services, multilingual ambassadors who support family engagement and advocacy, and family programming (adult English classes, tutoring and technology assistance).

"This year so far, we have students that speak a 114 languages," Santiago said, describing a districtwide effort to remove language barriers and provide one-stop support for applications and transportation questions. She said families can use a translate button on the district website or visit the multilingual center at 701 East Main Street during business hours for help completing SchoolMint applications and other supports.

District staff reiterated that translators and interpreters are available at the showcase and at application centers, and that staff will walk families through program choices, complete applications in person, and explain transportation options such as centralized regional stops. Officials encouraged families who need help to use onsite resources or call the district program office for assistance and troubleshooting.