Augmentive and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist

Augmentive and Alternative Communication (AAC) Specialist The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough Northborough Southborough Public Schools - Southborough, Massachusetts. Starting Date: Aug 27, 2026 Job Description Promote teaching and learning for all children with the assistance of augmentative and alternative communication aids and devices using a total communication approach. Provide consultative services for students in the district's substantially separate classrooms. An AAC Specialist assists in identifying alternative and augmentative methods of communication for children with disabilities and supports the Speech and Language Pathologist in implementing strategies to support communication development for children with severe speech and language impairments. Qualifications Required Qualifications Master's Degree in a content-specific field (Communication Sciences and Disorders) Extensive knowledge and experience working with students who communicate with augmented and/or alternative forms of communication Desired Qualifications Experience utilizing augmentative and alternative communication to improve educational outcomes for students. Knowledge of special education processes, including referrals, timelines, laws and procedures, and terminology. Knowledge of multiple technology platforms and interfaces. Ability to work independently within supervisory expectations while managing the schedule effectively. Knowledge of typical speech and language development and the ability to apply this information to individuals who rely on AAC. Knowledge and skills necessary to conduct and interpret the results of a comprehensive oral peripheral examination, including assessments of the primary subsystems of speech (i.e., respiration, phonation, articulation, and resonance). Knowledge of cultural and linguistic differences and their implications for changes in administration methods, content, and interpretation of assessment results. Knowledge of how language is generated on AAC systems during communication. Strong interpersonal skills. Strong organizational skills. Essential Job Duties Implement a multimodal approach to enhance effective communication that is culturally and linguistically appropriate. Acquire and maintain the knowledge and skills (ASHA, 2002) that are necessary to provide quality professional services. Integrate perspectives, knowledge and skills of team members to assist those students who have AAC needs. Work with the IEP Team in developing functional and meaningful goals and objectives. Assess, intervene, and evaluate progress and outcomes associated with AAC interventions using principles of evidence-based practice. Facilitate students’ use of AAC to promote and maintain their access to the curriculum. Identify and coordinate the participation of other team members throughout the assessment process; recognizing the importance of collaborating with specialists, family members, and other parties as needed. Determine the purpose(s) of AAC assessment, such as natural speech facilitation, temporary means of expression, alternative to natural speech, and replacement of challenging or problem behaviors with more conventional and socially acceptable forms of communication. Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment and/or a discrepancy analysis to identify why a student’s level of participation in a particular activity might be restricted due to his/her lack of access to an effective means of communication. Use authentic assessment procedures to assess and determine students’ communication skills and needs in relation to the communication skills of other persons the same age, in everyday school situations. Identify the need for professionals from other disciplines in order to conduct a comprehensive and integrated assessment. Assessment and documentation of AAC methods, components, and strategies to maximize functional communication by individuals. Skill participating in different models of service delivery. Administer (with and without accommodations), and interpret results of standardized, nonstandardized, and criterion-referenced assessment procedures while maintaining reliability and validity. Convey assessment information and implications (e.g., recommendations, goals, and intervention suggestions), orally and in writing, to individuals who use AAC, parents and other family members, team members, and other professionals. Work within the team process to make referrals to appropriate professionals, agencies, and services. Identify and measure desired outcomes in collaboration with students who use AAC, their families, and team members. Consistent and on-time attendance is required for supervision and instruction of the students. Perform other related duties as assigned by the Director of Student Services or designee. Work Environment & Physical Requirements Work Environment: The work environment is in a classroom and school setting, interacting with students. Physical Requirements: The AAC Specialist must be able to work in a classroom, school, and office environment and move throughout the building to support students and staff. The position requires the ability to walk, stand, sit, bend, stoop, crouch, kneel, and assist students with limited mobility. The employee may occasionally lift, carry, or move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds. The AAC Specialist must have sufficient mobility, vision, hearing, manual dexterity, and communication skills to perform the essential functions of the position, including using technology and AAC devices, observing student behavior, and responding appropriately to student and school needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. Date Updated: 6/12/26 The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough are an Equal Opportunity Employer. The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough ensure equal employment opportunities regardless of race, creed, sex, color, national origin, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or any other class as protected by law. The Public Schools of Northborough and Southborough place a high value on the recruitment of diverse staff. Any individual needing assistance in making an application for any opening should contact the district human resources office. Position Type: Part-Time Salary: $25,000 to $34,065 Per Year Job Requirements Master degree preferred. Citizenship, residency or work visa required. Contact Information Heather Richards , Director of Human Resources 79 Bartlett St Northborough, Massachusetts 01532 Phone: View phone number on click.appcast.io Email: View email address on click.appcast.io #J-18808-Ljbffr Young World Physical Education