TAMMY CARRIZALES

Tammy Carrizales is a native of Austin, Texas. She is a child of deaf parents (CODA) that are alumni of TSD, graduating in 1972 and 1973. She grew up attending TSD activities, especially homecoming, with her parents. This was the launching point to shaping her life as an interpreter. 

 

Tammy always knew she would work in the field of deafness, but wasn't sure in what capacity. After graduating high school, she began her work experience as a teacher's aide at TSD. In order to gain experience in different capacities, she then transferred to work with deaf students in the dorm as a Day Residential Educator (DRE). During this time, Tammy acquired her BEI certification. She decided to dip into the world of free-lance interpreting around the local community. She enjoyed interpreting and when a position at the TSD Interpreting Services Department opened up in 2005 she was able to transfer and begin her well-established career as a TSD staff interpreter. Tammy has been with the Texas School for the Deaf since 1999, where 11 of those years have been with the interpreting department.

 

Tammy has always shared a very special and close relationship with her mom. In 2009, her mom lost the battle with cancer. However, Tammy knows that her mom is always with her and watching over her. Tammy's dad is well known at TSD as a former employee who retired a few years ago. He is now commonly known as the "Signing Santa" in Austin. He is a great man that encouraged Tammy's passion for the deaf community.