SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGIST

Speech Pathologist

The Speech Pathologist is responsible for providing comprehensive speech and language services to students within the Lexington City School System. This position involves assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of communication disorders, as well as collaboration with educators, parents, and other professionals to support student success.

Essential Job Functions:

• Conduct screenings and tests to evaluate students' speech and language abilities; obtains diagnostic information, analyzes information, and makes recommendations regarding programs and services in collaboration with the team.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans to address communication disorders, including articulation, language, fluency, and voice disorders.
• Provide direct therapy services to students individually or in small groups, utilizing evidence-based practices.
• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other school staff to support students' communication needs in educational settings.
• Provide appropriate information on an informal or formal basis regarding speech, language, and hearing programs and services.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of student progress, assessments, and interventions.
• Participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and contribute to the development of IEP goals and objectives.
• Provide consultation and training to teachers and staff on strategies for supporting students with speech and language impairments in the classroom.
• Stay current on research, trends, and best practices in the field of speech-language pathology.
• Participate in continuing education and professional growth activities related to speech-language hearing and education.
• Make recommendations and referrals for audiological/medical and related services as the needs of the student/and or family require.
• Adhere to professional ethical standards and guidelines as outlined by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and state licensing board.
• Perform other related duties, as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of principles, methods, and techniques of speech-language pathology.
• Familiarity with assessment tools and procedures for diagnosing communication disorders.
• Ability to develop and implement effective intervention strategies for diverse student populations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for collaborating with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Proficiency in maintaining accurate records and documentation in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Understanding of laws and regulations governing special education services in North Carolina.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Flexibility and adaptability in responding to the changing needs of students and the school community.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and continuous improvement in practice.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) or eligibility to complete the Clinical Fellowship Year with ASHA.
• A license from the North Carolina Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology or eligibility to complete the Supervised Experience Year with the NC BOE
• Must hold and maintain a valid motor vehicle operator's license with a good driving record according to the State of NC requirements.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience providing school based speech/language therapy services
• Experience with the IEP process
• Experience with ECATs.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, hearing, and repetitive motions.
• Must be able to exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 5 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
• Must possess the visual acuity to operate machines and equipment including close inspection of moving and small parts, using measurement devices, assembly, and fabrication of parts, and to maintain records.
• Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Sedentary Work. Light Work usually requires walking or standing to a significant degree. However, if the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work.

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job.