Speech and Language Pathologist

South Western School District

Position Description

POSITION TITLE | Speech and Language Pathologist

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

10 month Professional Faculty Position (191 days)

Salary and benefits as negotiated through the Collective Bargaining Agreement

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Bachelor’s Degree with PA certification1883 Specialist – School Speech and Language Pathologist PK-12 
2. Preference for PA Certification and ASHA certification

REPORTS TO:  

Building Principals and Supervisor of Special Education

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Speech and Language pathologists will work with building and district administrators, classroom teachers, and other professional and support staff

JOB SUMMARY/GOAL:

Speech and Language Pathologist is responsible for the diagnosis, prognosis, prescription, remediation, and the intervention of speech, language, and swallowing disorders.  A Speech and Language Pathologist evaluates and treats children who have difficulty speaking, listening, reading, writing, or swallowing.  The overall objective of speech and language pathology services is to optimize an individual’s ability to communicate and swallow, thereby improving quality of life and educational achievement. (PDE CSPG 86).

ESSENTIAL TASKS:

Speech and Language Planning, Analysis and Evaluation

1. Screen, assess, and evaluate referred students and effectively share results with parents and educational staff, and participate in the eligibility determination process in accordance with federal, state, and district requirements.
2. Develop, implement, and assess Individual Education Programs (IEPs) for students with identified speech/language impairments, including facilitating and leading meetings with members of the IEP team.
3. Assess the effects of speech and language disorders on educational performance and plan for and manage assessment and intervention of student instruction..
4. Maintain accurate and appropriate records and information concerning individual students in a confidential manner according to FERPA guidelines and requirements.
5. Establish and maintain cooperative professional relationships with administrators and other school staff, and provide consultative services for school staff by sharing and demonstrating best practices and strategies for supporting students with speech, language, communication, or swallowing disorders.

Intervention and Implementation

1. Provide instructional, remedial, and intervention services to students with speech and language disabilities in the following areas: language, articulation, fluency, voice, oral motor, phonological, alphabetic principle-phonics, social language disorders, and other appropriate areas.
2. Apply treatment for speech, language communication and swallowing disorders (as detailed in the key knowledge)
3. Apply laws and policies related to speech and language services in order to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
4. Develop and implement specific treatment regimens and treat diagnosed disabilities
5. As requested and deemed appropriate by district and building administrators, develop and implement professional development to staff on topics relating to speech, language, communication, and swallowing disorders.
6. Implement and comply with all District policies and procedures.

 KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS (KSA):

Knowledge:

• Speech and language development: Thorough understanding of typical speech and language development across the K-12 age range, including milestones and potential red flags for delays.
• Speech and language disorders: Deep knowledge of various speech and language disorders, their causes, characteristics, and assessment methods.
• Pennsylvania special education regulations: Familiarity with the Pennsylvania Code Chapter 14, which governs special education services, including Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and evaluation procedures.
• Evidence-based practices: Up-to-date knowledge of research-supported therapy approaches for different speech and language disorders.
• Collaboration: Understanding of different roles in the educational system and effective collaboration strategies with teachers, parents, administrators, and other professionals.

Skills:

• Assessment: Expertise in conducting comprehensive speech and language evaluations, including formal and informal testing, to identify strengths, weaknesses, and eligibility for services.
• Intervention: Ability to develop and implement individualized therapy plans based on each student's specific needs and goals.
• Data collection and analysis: Skills in tracking student progress, analyzing data, and reporting results to stakeholders.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills to explain diagnoses, recommendations, and progress to parents, teachers, and other professionals.
• Cultural competence: Ability to respect and value diverse backgrounds and tailor interventions accordingly.

Abilities:

• Problem-solving: Ability to identify challenges, analyze potential solutions, and implement effective interventions.
• Critical thinking: Skills to evaluate evidence, draw conclusions, and make sound decisions related to student needs.
• Flexibility: Adapting therapy plans and approaches to diverse student needs and learning styles.
• Patience and empathy: Recognizing the potential emotional impact of communication disorders and interacting with students and families with sensitivity and understanding.
• Professionalism: Maintaining high ethical standards, confidentiality, and professionalism in all interactions.