Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP)

Speech-Language Pathologist

The Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) provides comprehensive speech-language services that support students' communication skills and academic success. The SLP evaluates, identifies, and serves students with communication disorders that impact educational performance while collaborating with families, teachers, administrators, and related service providers. Services are delivered in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), North Carolina Policies Governing Services for Children with Disabilities, and Sugar Creek Charter School procedures.

The Speech-Language Pathologist is an integral member of the Exceptional Children (EC) Department and actively supports the school's mission of providing high-quality, student-centered instruction in an inclusive learning environment.

Essential Responsibilities

Student Assessment

• Conduct comprehensive speech-language evaluations using formal and informal assessment tools.
• Complete initial evaluations, reevaluations, screenings, and observations within required timelines.
• Prepare comprehensive evaluation reports and present findings to IEP teams.
• Participate in Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs) when appropriate.

IEP Development and Compliance

• Serve as an active member of the IEP Team.
• Develop measurable communication goals and objectives aligned with student needs.
• Monitor student progress and provide quarterly progress reports.
• Maintain accurate service logs, therapy documentation, and progress monitoring data.
• Ensure compliance with IDEA, Section 504, FERPA, Medicaid (if applicable), and North Carolina EC policies.
• Complete all required ECATS documentation within established timelines.

Direct and Indirect Services

• Provide individual, small-group, classroom-based, and consultative speech-language services.
• Implement evidence-based intervention strategies.
• Utilize a variety of instructional materials and technology to support communication.
• Support students with articulation, language, fluency, voice, pragmatics, AAC, and feeding/swallowing concerns within the school setting when appropriate.

Collaboration

• Collaborate with EC teachers, general education teachers, administrators, school psychologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, behavior support staff, and instructional assistants.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings.
• Provide classroom strategies and accommodations to support student communication.
• Maintain regular communication with parents regarding student progress and recommendations.

Data Collection and Documentation

• Maintain accurate records of therapy sessions.
• Analyze student data to make instructional decisions.
• Monitor caseload compliance and service schedules.
• Maintain confidential student records in accordance with FERPA.

MTSS and School Support

• Participate in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process as requested.
• Assist with communication screenings and intervention recommendations.
• Support school-wide literacy and communication initiatives.
• Collaborate with staff regarding classroom communication supports.

Professional Responsibilities

Maintain current North Carolina licensure and all required credentials.

Participate in professional learning and district training.

Demonstrate professionalism and ethical practice.

Support school initiatives and participate in faculty meetings, professional learning communities, and EC team meetings.

Perform additional duties assigned by the Director of Exceptional Children.

Qualifications

Education

• Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited college or university.

Licensure

• Current North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (NCBOESLPA) license.
• Eligible for employment in North Carolina public or charter schools. North Carolina requires school-based SLPs to hold a valid NCBOESLPA license for service in public schools.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred.
• Experience working in public or charter schools.
• Knowledge of ECATS documentation.
• Experience with AAC systems and assistive technology.
• Experience serving students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and complex communication needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of IDEA, North Carolina EC Policies, and special education compliance.

Knowledge of evidence-based speech-language intervention.

Ability to interpret assessment data and develop individualized treatment plans.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Strong organizational and time-management skills.

Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

Ability to establish positive relationships with students, families, and staff.

Proficiency with technology and electronic documentation systems.

Physical Requirements

Ability to move throughout the school campus.

Ability to lift and carry instructional materials up to 25 pounds.

Ability to sit, stand, bend, and work with students in various educational settings.

Performance Expectations

The Speech-Language Pathologist will:

• Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.
• Meet all timelines for evaluations, IEP documentation, and progress reporting.
• Deliver high-quality, evidence-based speech-language services individually and in group.
• Foster positive relationships with students, families, and staff.
• Demonstrate professionalism, collaboration, and ethical practice.
• Support the mission, vision, and core values of Sugar Creek Charter School.