What is the most appropriate action for a counselor when parents do not speak English and the counselor is not bilingual?

Providing a translator for meetings is the most appropriate action in this scenario because it facilitates direct and effective communication between the counselor and the parents who do not speak English. Using a translator allows the counselor to convey essential information regarding the child's academic progress, social concerns, and any other relevant issues directly, ensuring that parents fully understand what is being discussed. This method supports the involvement of parents in the education process, which is essential for the student’s success.

Additionally, using a translator helps ensure that parents can ask questions and express their concerns without the barrier of language. It also maintains the integrity of the discussion, as real-time translation captures nuances that might be lost in written communication.

While providing a verbal summary of meetings may help somewhat, it doesn’t allow for the same level of engagement and mutual understanding as having an interpreter present. Communicating only through written notices could lead to misunderstandings if the parents are not able to fully comprehend the written information. Conducting home visits, while beneficial in establishing rapport, may not be practical and could still miss the immediate need for effective communication during school meetings.