Job Description

Title: Speech Language Pathology Assistant

Reports To: Program Administrator

Job Goal: The Speech Language Pathology Assistant will provide Speech/Language

services to students in a variety of

programs at SASED with developmental and/or physical disabilities in classroom

settings. The SLPA, as part of the educational team will help design

communication systems for all students so they are able to communicate the

needs, desires and thoughts to others, in the real world. The SLPA will work collaboratively with the

classroom team to support the educational needs (IEP goals) of the student across

the curriculum.

Qualifications:

• Associates Degree Pathway OR Bachelor's Degree Pathway through a Speech-Language Pathology/Communication Sciences and Disorders (or equivalent)
• License issued by IDFPR, or an equivalent certification for Speech Language Pathology Assistant Certification
• Completed 1,000 hours of clinical experience of supervised fieldwork
• A valid Illinois driver's license and access to a reliable, insured vehicle in order to drive between service provision locations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• A valid Illinois driver's license and access to a reliable, insured vehicle in order to drive between service provision locations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Exempt/Non-Union:

• Non-bargaining unit employee as Speech Language Pathology Assistants are not a recognized position in either of SASED's Collective Bargaining Agreements

Duties and Responsibilities: *Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

A. Planning and Preparation

1. Organizes a program that addresses local school speech-language goals.

2. Works cooperatively with school personnel to establish and accomplish the goals and objectives of the local education agency.

3. Coordinates speech-language services with student services provided by other school personnel.

4. Maintains records of the speech-language program and prepares periodic reports as required.

5. Maintains current files and data for program planning and decision making for students.

6. Completes procedural documentation appropriately.

7. Develops appropriate IEPs based on students' strengths and needs.

8. Selects and implements evidence-based practices which support the goals and objectives of the speech and language program.

B. Classroom Environment

1. Establishes and maintains orderly classroom behavior on an individual or group basis.

2. Arranges therapy environment to create optimum learning conditions.

3. Manages the facilities, materials and equipment, including assistive technology, necessary to the delivery of services.

4. Takes all necessary and reasonable precautions to protect students, equipment, materials, and facilities.

C. Instruction

1. Assesses students' communication skills for the purpose of identifying communication disorders, determining program eligibility, and developing recommendations for treatment.

2. Provides speech and language therapy to students for the purpose of minimizing adverse effects of speech and language disorders on student success.

3. Provides research based interventions as appropriate as a component of the MTSS process.

4. Implements the service delivery model most appropriate to the students' degree of severity.

5. Provides activities commensurate with students' interests and aptitudes.

6. Modifies therapeutic instructional approaches and other functions from data gathered during therapy.

D. Professional Responsibilities

1. Provides consultation to parents, teachers and other appropriate school personnel.

2. Seeks the assistance of teachers, parents and others to meet the communication needs of students.

3. Consults/communicates with non-school agencies to enhance services.

4. Manages time efficiently.

5. Meets accepted standards of professional behavior.

6. Engages in continuing education and professional growth activities related to speech-language-hearing and education (i.e. participates in professional meetings/conferences, reviews current speech, language, and hearing literature, and applies knowledge gained from continuing education, etc.)

7. The therapist exhibits professionalism and commitment through punctuality and attendance.

8. Performs other duties as assigned by the administration.

9. Demonstrate the ability to perform physical tasks associated with the job.

10. Demonstrate the ability to perform activities that utilize the necessary technology tools available including web-based data system

Terms of Employment: 184-day work year at compensation set by the SASED Board of Directors.

Physical Requirements:

The role requires the ability to:

• Move between classrooms, offices, and other school facilities to meet with students, staff, and families.
• Sit for extended periods during counseling sessions, meetings, and documentation tasks.
• Lift and carry up to 20 pounds, such as files, resources, or materials for programs and activities.
• Use fine motor skills for writing, typing, and managing office equipment.
• Have clear vision and hearing to assess student behavior, review documentation, and communicate effectively.
• Respond quickly to crises or emergencies, which may require physical presence and mobility.
• Adapt to a variety of environments, including classrooms, offices, homes, and community settings.

Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.