Speech and Language Pathology Assistant

Job Summary

Under the supervision and guidance of a Speech-Language Pathologist with a supervision certificate from the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board, assists with the assessment and remediation of pre-school - 8th grade students referred to the Speech-Language Program. May serve as a bilingual interpreter and/or translator for the Special Education Teachers and support staff; and perform other related work as required.

Job Description / Essential Elements:


DRAFT
EL MONTE CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT POSITION DESCRIPTION
Position: Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
Department: Special Education FLSA: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Director Pay Grade: 20


SUMMARY


Under the supervision and guidance of a Speech-Language Pathologist with a supervision certificate from the Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board, assists with the assessment and remediation of pre-school - 8th grade students referred to the Speech-Language Program. May serve as a bilingual interpreter and/or translator for the Special Education Teachers and support staff; and perform other related work as required.


DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS


Under the specific direction of the designated Speech-Language Pathologist(s), and the general direction of the site administrator, the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) will assist staff in supplementing, enhancing, and providing speech-language services for students with speech and language disorders, including articulation/phonology, oral-motor speech, fluency, hearing, and language. The SLPA will assist with the training and use of assistive technology and augmentative communication. The SLPA will work with students who have severe speech and language disorders, as well as physical and emotional disabilities.


ESSENTIAL TYPES OF DUTIES (Examples)
• Assists with speech and language screenings as directed by supervising SLP;
• Provides students with therapeutic treatments and assistance;
• Maintains detailed records and documentation of students' progress;
• Assists Speech and Language Pathologist with related tasks required in program planning, implementation and operation regarding students;
• Implements individualized programs developed by the Speech and Language Pathologist;
• Assists students speech with speech and language disorders related to school achievement;
• Attends various meetings with professionals, parents, and various services providers;
• Maintains a high level of confidentiality of information about students as assured in the Student and Parent Rights outlined in IDEA;
• May interpret and translate for the Special Education Teacher and support staff at I.E.P. meetings, student assessments, and Parent Conferences.


QUALIFICATIONS


Knowledge and Skills: Knowledge of language articulation disorders; remediation materials; child development and behavior characteristics, and the cultural attitudes of children with bilingual/bicultural instructional needs; behavior management strategies and techniques; augmentation communication devices; appropriate English usage, punctuation, spelling, grammar, and second language usage as appropriate to the assignment; basic arithmetical concepts; basic assessment tools and procedures; routine record storage, retrieval, and management procedures; and bilingual/bicultural instructional strategies.


Abilities: Requires the ability to demonstrate an empathetic, patient, and receptive attitude with students; interpret, understand, and follow specific student educational plans and courses of study; communicate satisfactorily in oral and written form in English and a second language as required by the assignment, and to serve as an appropriate language model; perform routine clerical tasks and operate a variety of educational and office machines and equipment, including computers; learn to utilize a variety of appropriate technological equipment, educational software, and instructional materials and procedures in the enhancement of an educational environment; understand and carry out oral and written directions; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with children and adults; utilize specialized communication systems and devices; utilize current speech-language methods and procedures in an instructional setting.


Physical Abilities: The physical requirements indicated below are examples of the physical aspects that this position classification must perform in carrying out essential job functions. Persons performing service in this position classification will exert 10 to 20 pounds of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. This type of work involves sitting most of the time, but may involve running, walking or standing for brief periods. Perceiving the nature of sound, near and far visual acuity, depth perception providing oral information, the manual dexterity to operate business related equipment, and handle and work with various materials and objects are important aspects of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job.


Education and Experience: One year of paid or volunteer experience working with students experiencing language deficiencies or remedial instructional needs desired. An Associate degree in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant and/or a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Certificate.


Licenses or Certifications: California Driver's License. Must maintain a valid Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Certificate through continuing education units.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Other (SPLA Certificate)