CLS - Speech and Language Pathologist Assistant (26/27 SY)

PROFESSIONAL CERTIFIED
SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST ASSISTANT
JOB DESCRIPTION

JOB TITLE:  Prof - Speech Language Pathologist Assistant         FLSA STATUS: Non-Exempt                    
REPORTS TO: Director of Special Education                                PAY GRADE: CLS-16
LOCATION: Education Support Services                                       DAYS: 192
                                                                                                       JOB ID & DATE: CLS-71, October 2023

JOB PURPOSE SUMMARY
The School Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLP-A) aids in the assessment, treatment, and improvement of students' communication and language skills. The SLP-A works closely with students, educators, and families to enhance students' ability to communicate effectively and succeed academically
 
REQUIREMENTS
 
Education Level Details
Bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders, Speech-Language Pathology
 
License / Certification Required
Colorado state licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLP-A).

Work Experience Required
Experience in speech-language therapy, especially in a school setting, is preferred.

Other Skills and Abilities Required
Strong interpersonal and communication skills to connect with students, parents, educators, and staff.
Effective organizational skills for managing caseloads and maintaining accurate records.
Flexibility to adapt to various student needs and therapy plans.
Physical stamina and patience to engage students in therapy exercises and activities.
Adherence to ethical, legal, and professional standards in the field of speech-language pathology.
 
KEY FUNCTIONS, ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
 
Essential Duties

 

• Collaborate with the SLP to conduct initial assessments and evaluations of students' speech and language needs. 
• Implement therapy activities and exercises based on the goals and recommendations set by the SLP, targeting speech, language, and communication skills. 
• Assist in developing individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 plans for students requiring speech-language therapy services. 
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and therapy interventions, consistently updating and modifying therapy plans based on individual needs. 
• Work closely with educators and support staff to integrate speech-language therapy strategies into the classroom setting, promoting effective communication and participation. 
• Provide therapy to improve speech sound production, articulation, and phonological skills. 
• Offer interventions to enhance students' language comprehension, expression, and communication skills. 
• Address fluency disorders and voice disorders, helping students achieve clear and effective communication. 
• Assist students in using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, if necessary, to support communication. 
• Address social communication difficulties and pragmatics to improve students' interaction and social skills. 
• Foster students' self-confidence and motivation through emotional support and encouragement, ensuring active participation in therapy sessions. 
• Establish effective communication with students, their families, educators, and the school team to ensure a collaborative approach to student support. 
• Maintain a safe therapy environment, adhere to relevant safety protocols, and ensure the safety of students during therapy sessions. 
• Educate students, families, and school staff on the benefits of speech-language therapy and provide strategies for students to apply progress in various settings. 
• Ensure proper maintenance and cleanliness of therapy equipment and tools used in school-based therapy. 
• Uphold ethical and professional standards, maintaining students' confidentiality and dignity.
   

Other

• Perform other job-related duties as assigned

 
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
n/a
 
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORKING CONDITIONS
 
The physical demands, work environment factors and mental functions described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.

Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee will work primarily in a school environment including classrooms, cafeterias, hallways, playgrounds, gyms, and other spaces accessible to students.  The Employee may be required to work from a remote location in the event of a district shut-down or other event.

Mental Functions: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate, compare, analyze, coordinate, instruct, evaluate, and use interpersonal skills. Occasionally required to compile, copy, compute and negotiate.