Speech Language Pathologist (K-12)

Speech/Language Pathologist

The Speech/Language Pathologist assists in developing speech and language skills to facilitate the personal, social, and intellectual development of students. In order to respond to the individual needs and abilities of students, the Speech/Language Pathologist must work closely with the staff and administration of the cooperative and school district.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Masters degree from an accredited college/university.
• Current PA State Teaching Certificate on file in the Central Office.
• Current PA Speech Pathologist License on file in the Central Office.
• Health and Inoculation Certificate on file in the Central Office.

Essential Functions:

• Assist in developing speech and language skills to facilitate the personal, social, and intellectual development of students.
• Establish a positive learning environment and respond to the individual needs of students.
• Ensure that all activities conform to district and cooperative guidelines.
• Communicate effectively with all members of the school district, cooperative, and community.
• Work effectively with community organizations.
• Appropriately operate all equipment as required.
• React to change productively and handle other tasks as assigned.
• Support the value of an education.
• Support the philosophy and vision of the cooperative and school district.

Physical Requirements/Environmental Conditions:

• Requires prolonged sitting or standing.
• Occasionally requires physical exertion to manually move, lift, carry, pull, or push heavy objects or materials.
• Occasional stooping, bending, and reaching.
• Requires some travel.
• Must work in noisy and crowded environments.

General Responsibilities:

• Assist in the early recognition and prevention of educational problems.
• Monitor student progress and make informed, timely educational decisions.
• Conduct speech, language, and hearing screenings and diagnostic evaluations to determine the need for clinical services.
• Participate as a team member in the comprehensive evaluation, review, and reevaluation process.
• Participate in the development of student IEP's.
• Adhere to required program guidelines as defined by the Pennsylvania Plan for Special Education.
• Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and others concerning the needs of students and special services that are available.
• Assist teachers in the development and implementation of curriculum modifications and appropriate classroom strategies.
• Refer students and their families to appropriate community agencies and services.
• Cooperate with agencies serving students and their families.
• Provide therapy, follow up, and/or consultation based on student IEP's.
• Motivate students through effective communication and evaluative feedback.
• Demonstrate awareness of the needs of students and provide for individual differences.
• Set high expectations for student achievement and behavior.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal relationships with others.
• Establish and maintain a positive climate for learning through appropriate classroom management.
• Plan and implement transitional programs for students.
• Assist students in developing feelings of self worth and in making social adjustments which permit them to cope with disabilities.
• Maintain appropriate, confidential records and provide timely reports.
• Order and maintain an adequate inventory of materials and supplies.
• Supervise and train staff members as assigned.
• Assist with public awareness activities which lead to a better understanding of the needs of exceptional children.
• Keep abreast of new information, innovative ideas, and techniques.
• See that school district and cooperative policies are observed during all activities.
• Obtain advance approval for all special activities and expenditures.
• Adhere to all district and cooperative health and safety policies, including all precautions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Special Education.