Meet our Staff: Mayumi Johnson

Issaquah School District’s New Language Access Coordinator

Cultural Bridges (CB): Tell us about your position and why the Issaquah School District added this position?

Mayumi Johnson (MJ): My name is Mayumi Johnson, and my position is known as the Language Access Coordinator. In this role, I am tasked with planning, designing, and implementing a comprehensive language access support model for families within the school district. This involves serving as the primary point of contact for families, community members, district staff, and other relevant organizations concerning language access needs. Other duties include providing training for district staff, collecting, managing, and reporting data to the state on behalf of the district, and ensuring compliance with state regulations.

The creation of the Language Access Coordinator position was in response to a state mandate requiring each school district to have dedicated personnel to address the language access needs of diverse communities.

While the Equity department previously provided language support services, the decision to house the Language Access Coordinator within the Communications department reflects a strategic alignment with our district's communication goals. I view the Language Access Plan as a vital communication tool that fosters stronger connections between school employees, students, and families, ultimately reducing barriers and promoting greater engagement in our educational community.

CB: Why did you choose to work as the Issaquah School District Language Access Coordinator?

MJ: My decision to become the district Language Access Coordinator stems from both personal and professional experiences. Growing up in Japan, I encountered challenges when my children began school in the U.S., navigating a system that differed from what I was accustomed to. This firsthand experience ignited my desire to address and improve the communication barriers faced by Limited English Proficiency (LEP) families. With an educational background in the Public Health Program, along with professional experiences as a translator and an ESL instructor, I acquired the necessary skills and knowledge for this role. Ultimately, my passion for languages and commitment to assisting the community were crucial factors in my decision to pursue this career path.

CB: Any exciting news you have done so far that you would like to share with the community?

MJ: One exciting initiative I've undertaken is the creation of the Language Access Advisory Committee. This committee serves as a platform for gathering ideas and feedback from various stakeholders in the community, including parents, students, local cultural organizations, and district staff. Through our committee meetings, I discovered many people were unaware of the existence of the Language Access Plan. In response, I developed the Language Access Plan Guide, which is now available on the district website to provide clear information and guidance for language services. Moving forward, I am collaborating with student volunteers to further enhance our efforts in reaching out to LEP families and ensuring they are aware of the language services available to them through the district. Additionally, I am providing training for district staff to emphasize the importance of language services and how to effectively provide them. This training and professional development serve as a refresher course for staff and provide updated guidance on language access protocols.

CB: What is your biggest challenge as the Language Access Coordinator?

MJ: As of now, I haven't encountered any significant challenges in my role as the Language Access Coordinator. I've been fortunate to work with incredibly supportive staff members throughout the district. Additionally, I receive support from outside of my work, including students, parents, community organizations, and Language Access Coordinators from other school districts. While I haven't faced major challenges yet, I understand that they may arise as I continue to grow in this role. I'm eager to face and overcome any challenges that come my way.

CB: Could you tell us a little bit about yourself outside your work?

MJ: I am a wife and mother to two human boys and two goldendoodle girls. Whenever I have time, I enjoy activities like paddleboarding, walking, hiking, and playing pickleball and volleyball. I’m grateful for the love and support of my wonderful family and friends.