“They do not work for the state. They do not work for the defense. Their role is to accurately

“They do not work for the state. They do not work for the defense. Their role is to accurately interpret what is said in the courtroom.”

Judge John M. Durkin, of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court. Courts are preparing for a new Ohio Supreme Court standard taking effect Jan. 1, 2013, that will require certified language or sign-language interpreters for those who need them in all Ohio courts, if such an interpreter is available.

“Whether you agree or disagree with his hiring, we should support him. Instead of chastising him for not being a Penn Stater, let’s show him what it means to be a Penn Stater. ... Let’s support him in any way we can.”

Former Penn State quarterback Kerry Collins, after New England Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien was named head coach of the Nittany Lions on Friday night.

“We do a variety of things with the child, including planning forms, testing and evaluation. Signing paperwork is only part of the process. There are so many components that go into it, and every school district takes it seriously.”

Marla Pechack, of Youngstown City Schools’ special-education department, who said giving district approval isn’t as simple as signing paperwork. She said all public school districts in Ohio must follow the Operating Standards to determine if a child is special needs, and which category he or she falls into.