Speech Language Pathology Assistant

Speech Language Pathology Assistant

The Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) serves as a member of an educational team and is authorized to perform tasks prescribed, directed and supervised by a Certified Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) in the implementation of services for children/students with speech, language, cognitive, voice, oral, muscular, augmentative/alternative communication disorders and hearing impairments.

Assist the Speech/Language Pathologist by providing services for students with disabilities including screening, observations, and instruction; assists in the selection, preparation and presentation of materials, including technology for instruction and other activities.

Implement documented intervention plans developed by a Speech/Language Pathologist and other designated personnel when implementing programming including oral, written, manual, augmentative and alternative communication techniques.

Knowledgeable about communication disorders including fluency, voice and resonance, receptive/expressive language, and language-based learning disabilities; understand and communicate about hearing disabilities and their impact on speech/language as well as the cognitive and social aspects of communication disorders.

Accurately collect data and maintain records in a timely manner for the purpose of student progress toward IEP goals and behavior support plans. Reports information to supervising Speech/Language Pathologist especially when adapting instruction for student achievement in the least restrictive environment.

Assist the Speech/Language Pathologist in the assessment or screening of students without interpretation and reports directly to the supervising Speech/Language Pathologist.

Implements use of technologies including adaptive and assistive equipment that facilitates student learning.

Understand the purpose of the IEP as it applies to the Speech/Language Pathologist Assistant assignment; demonstrates awareness of how student's goals are driven by curriculum and district and state evaluations.

Maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job especially concerning students and their families; refer concerns expressed by families, students or others to their supervisor or licensed team member.

Attend team meetings and other meetings as required furthering professional development, recognizing opportunities to generalize knowledge which serves to support student needs in the school environment.

Ensure safety in all environments, practice safe work habits and personal safety; follow universal health and safety precautions.

Attend to student medical needs as delegated by a Health Care Plan. Demonstrate ability to adapt to changes in responsibilities and work schedules by maintaining flexibility and positive, professional work ethic.

Demonstrate sensitivity to cultural differences in beliefs, traditions and values especially as they relate to students. Listen for understanding, share information appropriately and participate in problem-solving or planning activities.

Recognize own professional limitations and perform within boundaries of training and job responsibilities. Assist in clerical duties as assigned by the supervising Speech/Language Pathologist including but not limited to scheduling, safety and maintenance of supplies and equipment and record keeping. Perform other duties as may be assigned by supervisor/administrator.

Education, Training and Education: Bachelor's Degree in Speech Communication, Speech and Language Pathology or Communication Disorders/Speech Sciences or a Bachelor's Degree (in any major) plus 24 semester hours in speech language hearing sciences. Successful completion of a Speech/Language Pathology Assistant program from an institution whose program meets or exceeds recommended guidelines established by the American Speech/Language Hearing Association (ASHA). Posses or be eligible for a Colorado Department of Education Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Authorization. The Colorado SLPA Authorization must be held within 30 days of the candidate's start date in this teaching position. Each special education provider shall serve, at a minimum, a majority of students whose identified area of need aligns with the provider's endorsement. Endorsement levels must be appropriate for the age range being served, in accordance with ECEA Rule 3.04. Transcripts required. Criminal background check and District fingerprinting required.