Irian Townsend, Hazel Park/Hilda Knoff
Interpreter for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

What is the best part about teaching?

• The best part is that I get to interpret and it’s something I love to do. I love learning new signs and I love learning how the students sign at home. It’s an ongoing learning process. 

What is the best advice you’ve been given about teaching?

• Someone once told me to embrace everyone and no matter what to encourage that they are doing their best. I can meet them where they are and we go from there. 

What did your 15-year-old self think you would be doing as a career?

• I really thought I was going to be a brain surgeon. I saw a documentary about some brain surgery and I thought to myself how cool it was. 

What was your favorite subject in school?

• My favorite subject was science, especially environmental science.

What is your favorite sport to watch and/or play?

• My favorite sport to watch is football. I am a Saints fan to the core. I also really love watching the Olympics, even Winter Olympics.