Arkansas Department of Career Education Director Bill Walker announced today that Clara Taylor, whose February hiring for an interpreter position with the Arkansas Rehabilitation Services Division inspired much scrutiny, has been transferred to a new position in the agency.

According to reporting from KATV, Taylor was not certified as an interpreter, scored second lowest among nine applicants and failed to translate a simple video in either of two types of sign language. Taylor was a former contract employee of a funeral home owned by Walker.

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A news release issued today said Taylor has been transferred to the position of vocational rehabilitation specialist.

Walker’s mea culpa:

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“At the time Ms. Taylor was hired, I felt that she was the best candidate for the job. However, after further review and consideration, I believe that I made a mistake in hiring her for the interpreter position. “I take full responsibility for the decision to hire her. I believe that she will continue to be a valuable employee for this agency and that her skills are better utilized in another position. “

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