Speech Language Pathologist

Speech-Language Pathologist

Plan and provide speech-language pathology services to students with speech, voice, or language disorders. Assess students and provide therapeutic intervention to eliminate or reduce problems or impairments that interfere with their students' ability to derive full benefit from the educational program. Maintain speech and language special education records and documentation.

Minimum Education/Certification: Master's degree in speech-language pathology/communication disorders from an accredited college or university. Valid Texas license as a speech-language pathologist granted by the State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or Bachelor's degree and valid Texas Education Agency speech therapy certificate or Texas licensed Intern in Speech-Language Pathology.

Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge and skills in the area of speech pathology including assessment, diagnosis, and intervention techniques. Ability to use the accepted test and measurements to assess communication disorders and conditions; collect and interpret data. Knowledge of evaluation, habilitation, and rehabilitation of speech-language disorders and conditions. Ability and willingness to assess and instruct students with disabilities and manage student behaviors. Excellent organizational, communication (both written and oral), and interpersonal skills. Ability to problem solve effectively.

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard testing equipment; standard office equipment including computer and peripherals. Posture: Frequent sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting. Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension. Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), occasional heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting nonambulatory students. Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases; requires in district travel. Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure; learn and apply new skills and training efficiently. Regular attendance is an essential function.

Minimum Experience: Must have completed required practicum to receive Texas speech therapy license (or TEA Certificate if issued prior to 9/01/94).

Major Responsibilities and Duties:

Therapy:

1. Conduct independent evaluations to assess students with speech or language disorders and conditions and provide appropriate individual and group therapy to students consistent with speech and language goals and schedule of services contained in Individual Education Plans (IEP). Evaluate student progress and make determination regarding therapy services.
2. Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee. Assist in interpretation of assessment data, present levels, appropriate placement, and goal setting for students with communication disorders or conditions according to district procedures.

Consultation:

1. Consult with colleagues, students, and parents regarding student success, needs of the student, and involvement in remedial process.
2. Collaborate with classroom teachers to plan and implement classroom strategies/activities to improve communication skills of students.
3. Provide professional development in assigned schools to help school personnel identify and work more effectively with students with communication deficits.

Student Management:

1. Create an environment conducive to learning and appropriate for the maturity level and interests of students.

Program Management:

1. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of speech-language pathology services and make changes based on the findings.
2. Participate in the selection of equipment and instructional materials.
3. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other required documents.
4. Attend Speech-Language Pathology staff meetings and staff development.
5. Comply with policies established by federal and state laws, State Board of Education rule, board policy and the Educator Code of Ethics.
6. Comply with all district and campus routines and regulations.

Supervisory Responsibilities: Speech Pathologists may be called upon to supervise licensed assistants or interns in speech-language pathology, graduate students in speech-language pathology, and submit claims for Medicaid reimbursement.