Speech and Language Pk-12

Speech and Language Pathologist

Location: Multiple schools, classrooms, and educational locations based on need and Department of Education Regulations

Reports to: Supervisor, as assigned by the Chief Education Officer

Terms: 187 days Labor Status: Exempt Job Classification: Per current PSEA Agreement

Certification: As required by the PA Department of Education in accordance with Certification and Staffing Policy Guidelines (CSPG)

Company Overview: The Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 (AIU8) is one of the 29 intermediate units that provides a vast array of services for member school districts, including student services, training and technical assistance, online learning, and customized programs and services. IU8 includes four counties comprised of 35 school districts (approximately 98 schools) and five Career Technical Centers. Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 serves approximately 47,000 students across four counties within 3500 square miles.

Job Summary: This is an itinerant position that assesses to determine the presence or absence of speech and language delays and communication disorders in relation to performance in the educational setting. The professional plans, provides, and assesses comprehensive and individualized education, intervention, and instruction for eligible learners based on speech and language impairment. This professional is responsible for meeting the duties as outlined in CSPG 63 or 86, laws, Board Policy, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Supervisory Responsibilities: No

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct formal evaluations of students, ages 3-21, using appropriate and varied assessments, to determine eligibility as a student with a Speech and Language Impairment under IDEA and the impact of such speech and language impairment to the student's education and environment.
• Develop and complete, or contribute to, a student's PA standardized evaluation reports (ER/RR) and individualized education plans (IEPs), adhering to timelines.
• Facilitate the IEP to deliver specially designed instruction and related services designed to treat speech, language, and communication disorders.
• Maintain accurate and complete student records, prepare reports on children and activities that support their education as required by law, district/ IU8 policies, and administrative regulations.
• Provide training and education to family/caregivers and other professionals concerning communication skills.
• Develop effective relationships and work collaboratively with other professionals to coordinate a team approach to student programs.
• Where Certification and Licensure requirements are met, will complete all documentation and billing within required timelines, including Medical Access billing for eligible students.
• Utilize Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, and other LEA-specific systems for timely data entry, reporting, and record keeping.
• Utilize a structured system and format for planning and instruction.
• Complete required training that allows for maintenance of ASHA and PA certifications/ license by adhering to those standards and PA teaching requirements.
• Provide information to supervisors, co-workers, parents, and other professionals in writing, by phone, email, or in person.
• Provide consultative services to assigned districts.
• Have knowledge of and use multiple computer-based programs to support ordering of materials, data collection, educational programming, and other required job assignments.
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of office equipment.
• Modify teaching materials to accommodate individual students' needs within their educational placement.
• Develop individualized or group speech programming for students with special needs.
• Itinerant positions require travel between office sites and student locations.
• Train support personnel when needed.
• Provide equitable, accurate, and frequent supportive and constructive feedback to students.
• Demonstrate flexibility in responding to students.
• Use a variety of appropriate assessments to evaluate individual and collective student progress continuously.
• Interpret both formal and informal assessments to modify instructional decisions within the limits of one's role.
• Interpret assessment and use assessment data to generate reports of progress.
• Maintain accurate and timely instructional and non-instructional records with attention to designated timelines.
• Maintains professional competence, expands and applies knowledge in professional area(s).
• Demonstrates understanding of and abides by federal, state, and local school laws, regulations, and policies.
• Reviews and abides by the Pennsylvania Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators.
• Reviews and adheres to IU policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Demonstrates regular and timely attendance.
• Communicates effectively in verbal and written form in a professional and timely manner.
• Must have personal and reliable transportation to visit all work locations.
• Performs other duties as assigned in accordance with IU8 Board policy, administrative regulations, state and federal laws.

Requirements:

• Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders
• Pennsylvania Department of Education Teaching or Educational Specialist Certification in accordance with Certification Staffing Policy Guidelines
• American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence or Clinical Fellow Candidate
• Current and acceptable clearances: Act 34 (PA State Police), Act 151 (PA Child Abuse History), Act 114 (PDE Fingerprinting), PDE6004 (Arrest & Conviction), and Act 168 (PA Sexual Misconduct background)
• Upon hire, all new employees must obtain a certificate of medical examination as well as a tuberculosis test as required under Chapter 14 of the Public School Code, 24 P.S. 14-1416, 14-1418; 22 PA Code 49.12(b) (regarding education); and 28 Pa Code 23.44 (regarding health and safety).

Desired Qualifications:

• School-based and pediatric experience desired
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills
• Knowledge of typical and atypical speech and language development
• Knowledge of instructional strategies for students with speech and language impairments
• Knowledge of special education regulations and procedures
• Knowledge of positive, proactive classroom management systems
• Knowledge of positive behavior support techniques and strategies
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain confidentiality
• Proficient technology skills

The job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice.

Work Environment and Physical Demands:

The work environment is school and classroom settings, with some office, agency, or community settings based on need. The work of a speech-language pathologist could require work with learners outside the school building in locations around the school or in the community. The physical demands described below are representative of those that an employee must meet to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Some circumstances may require the ability to lift and/or assist in lifting pupils of ages ranging from 3 to 21 and maneuver assistive appliances (ex., wheelchairs) Ability to remain in a stationary position for an extended period of time Ability to move about various work environments Ability to position oneself to manage and retrieve various job materials and supplies Ability to push, pull, move, and lift up to 25 pounds Ability to operate a computer for extended periods and other office equipment as needed and work-related Ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand and exchange information with others in a variety of ways for understanding. Must be able to interpret, analyze, and problem solve. Must be able to read and understand complex documents relating to federal, state, and local mandates as well as materials relating to teaching and education. Ability and willingness to travel as necessary to fulfill job duties and requirements

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided with no monthly premiums
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Care Plan
• Health Savings Account (HSAs)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• 403 (b) Plan
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
• Pennsylvania Public Schools Employees' Retirement System (PSERS)

How to Apply: Online at: Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 is an equal opportunity employer.

Appalachia Intermediate Unit 08