Speech-Language Therapist / Pathologist

Job Description:

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Under the direction and supervision of a Speech and Language Pathologist, the Speech and Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) assists in supplementing, enhancing, and extending speech/language therapy services by completing a variety of tasks such as, but not limited to, direct activities with students designed to develop pre-language and language skills, oral-motor control for speech production, vocalization, and use of assistive technology devices for communication. The SLPA serves students who have identified speech and language disorders and may have other disabilities as well. The SLPA is expected to maintain data and appropriate entry into the CT-SEDS system.

Essential Functions

• Conducts speech, language and hearing screenings, as required
• Evaluates and identifies communication disorders of the students.
• Provides diagnostic services when appropriate.
• Works cooperatively with district/building administrators and specialists providing direction within a team in planning interventions for referred students to and reviewed by the PPT.
• Remains current in the field of speech and language and special education.
• Attends and/or provides information for teacher/parent conferences
• Compile written reports, statistical data, and other required documentation in support of district learning objectives and/or IEP goals of students
• Continually assess progress, recommend revisions and/or recommend new treatments or learning objectives for learners
• Maintain activity logs, progress reports, treatment plans and all other necessary files required
• Comply with the professional, ethical and legal codes of conduct, standards, and practices for Speech and Language Therapists as outlined by the Connecticut Department of Health and the Connecticut State Department of Education
• Use mandated assessments, skilled professional evaluations and assessments and other proven supplementary information to evaluate student needs
• Interpret findings accurately and convey information professionally to parents and school personnel as appropriate
• Serve as a resource to educators, building/district administrators, support personnel and parents on the effects of Speech and Language Therapy and the educational process
• Maintain inventory of equipment, materials, and supplies
• Properly and accurately provide timely Medicare/Medicaid billing information in accordance with federal, state, and local laws to include the Connecticut State Department of Education
• Identify, recommend, modify and/or provides direct services with variance; i.e. receptive and expressive language, fluency, voice, articulation, aural rehabilitation, oral motor intervention, auditory processing to meet educational learning objectives
• Provides guidance, direction, planning and oversight of SLPA
• Develop and/or train professional development and in-service activities for SLPAs

Other Duties and Responsibilities:

• Serve as a role model
• Interact in a positive manner with staff, students and parents
• Make contact with the public with tact and diplomacy
• Promote good public relations by personal appearance, attitude and conversation
• Respond to routine questions and requests in an appropriate manner
• Establish and maintain cooperative professional relationships
• Maintain a level of approachability by administration and staff
• Perform other related duties as assigned by the Director of Pupil Services

Qualifications/Certifications

• Active CSDE 061 Speech & Language Pathologist certification or qualifications to apply/secure
• Connecticut State Board of Health Licensure
• 2 years' experience working with students with special needs, preferred
• Experience in writing IEP goals/objectives, preferred
• Experience with the PPT process, preferred
• Experience in working with families from diverse backgrounds, preferred
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Director of Pupil Services may find appropriate
• Public school experience at all levels, including preschool, preferred
• Ability to communicate in Spanish, is an asset

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to communicate ideas and directives clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
• Effective, active listening skills
• Ability to work effectively with others
• Organizational and problem solving skills
• Excellent public relations skills
• Ability to promote learning and classroom management
• Proficiency of federal, state, and local laws including the Connecticut Department of Education governing special education