Speech and Language Pathologist (Autism)

The Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP) is responsible for identifying students with speech, hearing, and communication deficits and assuring that they receive remedial assistance such that each of these students demonstrate, at the very least, a way to communicate with peers, staff and family as a student of Pressley Ridge. To assure the identification of all students with deficits in speech, hearing, and language, the (SLP) will: Review referral information for all new students to determine history of speech or language deficits. Conduct hearing and language screening evaluations for all new students. For all current students, update assessment data yearly. Conduct hearing and language screening evaluation, as needed, in response to staff referrals of students experiencing academic difficulties; When appropriate, initiate referrals to outside agencies for complete hearing and language evaluations. Review available relevant assessment measures and with the approval of the Program/Education Director, purchase new assessments as needed. To assure the remediation of speech and language deficits such that all relevant students demonstrate a minimally acceptable level of communication skills, the SLP will: Review and purchase, with the approval of the Program/Education Director, new materials for speech and language instruction. Create relevant materials for SLP sessions with students. Develop and monitor Individualized Education Plans (I.E.P.s) for students identified as in need of remedial speech and language services. Coordinate and conduct individual and group therapy targeting specific speech or language deficits identified through assessment procedures. Make recommendations to classroom staff regarding appropriate instructional methods for students with speech and language deficits and serve as a staff coach. With the team, identify and integrate experiential activities into the comprehensive program to target specific speech and language deficits. Prepare and submit relevant information, as designated by the Program Coordinator, regarding student progress on progress reports. When appropriate, initiate referrals to outside agencies for special services such as hearing aids, communication devices, etc. Demonstrate a proficient level of cultural sensitivity. Review outcomes data and additional consumer satisfaction questionnaires for effectiveness of service delivery. Utilize technology to provide alternative ways of teaching and developing communication skills. Develop, with the assistance of the classroom Student Aide, visual schedules and visual cues. Establish social language groups for students to be able to actively practice communication skills with each other.   To help ensure coordinated school-wide activities, the SLP will: Participate in all relevant IEP meetings. Participate in other team meetings as necessary. Communicate regularly to the Program Coordinator.