Speech Pathologist or SLP-CF or SLP-CCC (ParkRidge)

Job Overview:

We are seeking a dedicated and dynamic K-8 Speech-Language Pathologist (Speech Teacher) to join our school community. The ideal candidate will have a passion for supporting students with speech and language disorders, helping them improve their communication skills in a positive, nurturing environment. This role involves assessing, diagnosing, and providing therapy for students with speech, language, and communication challenges, as well as collaborating with teachers and parents to develop and implement effective strategies. Candidates should be experienced in or open to using technology to support and enhance therapy for students.

Responsibilities:

• Assess, diagnose, and provide individualized speech and language therapy to students in grades K-8 with a variety of speech and language disorders, including articulation, fluency, voice, and receptive/expressive language delays.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans and goals for each student based on assessment results and IEP requirements.
• Provide direct speech and language therapy services in individual or small group settings, using evidence-based practices.
• Collaborate with general education teachers, special education teachers, and other support staff to ensure speech and language goals are integrated into the students' daily learning activities.
• Use data to monitor and track student progress, adjusting treatment plans and therapy techniques as needed.
• Work closely with parents/guardians to provide updates on student progress, offer strategies for reinforcing therapy goals at home, and discuss any concerns.
• Incorporate technology into therapy sessions to enhance learning, such as using speech therapy apps, interactive digital tools, and augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) devices as appropriate.
• Support students in building strong communication skills that will help them succeed academically and socially.
• Advocate for students' needs and ensure accommodations and modifications related to speech and language are provided in the classroom.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student assessments, therapy sessions, progress, and communication with families.
• Participate in IEP meetings and collaborate with the educational team to ensure speech and language goals are aligned with students' overall academic objectives.
• Stay current with research-based practices and new developments in speech-language pathology, including the use of technology to improve therapy outcomes.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders.
• Valid state license or certification to practice as a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and certification from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
• Experience working with elementary-aged students (K-8) in a school setting (preferred).
• Knowledge of a wide range of speech and language disorders, including articulation, fluency, voice, and language delays.
• Experience with or openness to integrating technology into therapy (e.g., speech therapy apps, AAC devices, interactive software, or virtual learning platforms).
• Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with students, teachers, and parents.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine interest in helping students build communication skills.
• Ability to monitor progress, collect data, and adjust therapy plans as necessary.

Desired Skills:

• Familiarity with assistive technology tools, such as AAC devices or speech recognition software.
• Experience with digital learning platforms (e.g., Google Classroom, Seesaw, etc.) or telepractice (teletherapy) platforms.