Speech Language Pathologist (187 Days)

Speech Language Pathologist

Under the direction of the Special Education Coordinator, the Speech Language Pathologist provides services to students with speech, voice, or language disorders. Assess students and provide therapeutic intervention to eliminate or reduce problems or impairments that interfere with their students' ability to derive full benefit from the educational program.

Essential Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• Master's degree in speech-language pathology from an accredited college or university
• Valid license as a speech-language pathologist granted by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR)
• Completion of the state-required fingerprinting and criminal background check is required.

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Ability to use the accepted tests and measurements to assess communication disorders and conditions.
• Knowledge of evaluation, habilitation, and rehabilitation of speech-language disorders and conditions.
• Use effective communication skills to present information accurately and clearly. Ensure that all interactions are supportive, courteous, and respectful.
• Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior.
• Ability to support students with basic device setup, navigation, and technology issues.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Complies with TEA regulations, applicable federal, state, and local laws, school policies, and standards of the Professional Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators.

Performance Responsibilities

Instructional Strategies:

• Conduct independent evaluations to assess students with speech or language disorders and conditions and provide appropriate individual and group therapy to students consistent with speech and language goals contained in Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make determination regarding therapy services.
• Develop clinical management strategies or procedures and diagnostic statements.
• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee. Assist in interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students with communication disorders or conditions according to district procedures.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of speech-language pathology services and make changes based on the findings.
• Participate in the selection of equipment and instructional materials.
• Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state laws, State Board of Education rule, and board policy. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.
• Plan and use appropriate instructional and learning strategies, activities, materials, and equipment for learning that reflect understanding of the learning styles and needs of students assigned.
• Work cooperatively with classroom teachers to adapt regular curricula as needed and assist special education students in regular classes with assignments.
• Collaborate with teacher aide(s) to ensure student needs are covered.
• Use appropriate integrated technology to strengthen the teaching/learning process.
• Provide or supervise personal care as stated in IEP.
• Be a positive role model for students; support the mission of Westlake Academy.

Classroom Management and Organization:

• Create a classroom environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the physical, social, and emotional development of students.
• Manage student behavior and follow student's BIPs.
• Consult with classroom teachers regarding management of student behavior according to IEP.
• Complete Non-Violent Crisis Intervention training and Maintain certification each school year.

Professional Growth and Development:

• Participate in professional development activities that are aligned with campus goals, assigned areas of responsibility, and the varied needs of students.
• Attend and participate in faculty meetings and serve on staff committees as required.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• May direct and monitor the work of speech language pathology assistant or speech aide.

Evaluation:

• Performance of this job will be evaluated at least annually by the Special Education Coordinator.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment:

The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment.

Posture: Prolonged sitting; frequent standing, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking; repetitive hand motions, frequent keyboarding, and use of mouse; occasional reaching.

Lifting: Regular moderate lifting and carrying (15-44 lbs.); may lift and move equipment; occasional physical restraint of students to control behavior.

Environment: Work inside, may work outside.

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under stress; may work prolonged or irregular hours.

Disclaimer:

This position description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job.