What are the responsibilities and job description for the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) position at Carolina Achieve?
Job Overview:
The Part-Time Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) provides evaluation, eligibility determination, and direct/indirect speech-language services for students in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), North Carolina Policies Governing Services for Children with Disabilities, and all applicable federal and state regulations.
The SLP ensures that students with speech-language impairments and related communication needs receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). This role includes participation in the full IEP process, compliance documentation, service delivery, and collaboration with staff and families to support student access to the general education curriculum.
Key Responsibilities:
Evaluation & Eligibility (Compliance-Focused)
- Conduct comprehensive speech-language evaluations in accordance with NC EC Policies and IDEA timelines.
- Utilize a variety of assessment tools and strategies to gather functional, developmental, and academic information.
- Participate as a required member of the IEP Team to determine eligibility under Speech-Language Impairment (SLI) and other relevant categories, as appropriate.
- Ensure all evaluations meet requirements for multidisciplinary assessment, non-discriminatory practices, and use of technically sound instruments.
IEP Development & Implementation
- Develop measurable annual goals aligned to student needs and grade-level standards.
- Contribute to the development of IEP components including:
- Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP)
- Service delivery statements
- Accommodations and modifications
- Progress monitoring plans
- Ensure services are implemented as written in the IEP and documented accurately.
Service Delivery
- Provide direct and indirect speech-language therapy services as a related service under IDEA.
- Deliver services in a variety of settings (push-in, pull-out, consultation) to support LRE.
- Use evidence-based practices to support articulation, language, fluency, voice, and pragmatic language needs.
- Integrate therapy goals with classroom instruction and curriculum when appropriate.
Progress Monitoring & Reporting
- Collect and analyze data on student progress toward IEP goals.
- Provide timely progress reports to parents consistent with school reporting periods.
- Adjust interventions based on student response to instruction and data.
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain complete, accurate, and confidential records in accordance with:
- IDEA
- NC EC Policies
- FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act)
- Ensure compliance with all required timelines, including:
- Initial evaluations (90-day timeline in NC)
- Reevaluations (every 3 years or as required)
- Annual IEP reviews
- Document service logs, Medicaid billing (if applicable), and progress monitoring data.
Collaboration & Consultation
- Collaborate with general education teachers, EC staff, and administration to support student access to the general curriculum.
- Provide consultation to staff regarding strategies, accommodations, and communication supports.
- Engage families as partners in the IEP process and student progress.
MTSS & Early Intervening Support
- Participate in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) by assisting with screening, intervention strategies, and data analysis for students with communication concerns.
- Provide guidance on differentiation and Tier 1/Tier 2 supports prior to referral when appropriate.
Professional Responsibilities
- Attend IEP meetings, eligibility meetings, and required school meetings.
- Participate in EC audits, monitoring visits, and compliance reviews as needed.
- Engage in ongoing professional development aligned with NC licensure and best practices.
Qualifications:
Education:
- Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Licensure & Certification:
- Current North Carolina Speech-Language Pathologist License (NC Board of Examiners for SLP & Audiology).
- North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) licensure (or eligibility) in Speech-Language Pathology.
- ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred (CF candidates considered if supervision requirements can be met).
Experience:
- Experience in a school-based setting preferred.
- Knowledge of IDEA, FAPE, LRE, and NC EC Policies required.
- Experience with IEP development and compliance processes strongly preferred.
Skills & Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of speech-language development and disorders in children.
- Knowledge of North Carolina EC compliance requirements, timelines, and documentation standards.
- Ability to write legally compliant IEPs and evaluation reports.
- Strong data collection, progress monitoring, and reporting skills.
- Excellent collaboration, communication, and organizational abilities.
- Commitment to inclusive practices and student-centered services.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with ECATS (or similar IEP documentation systems).
- Familiarity with Medicaid billing for school-based services.
- Experience supporting early elementary populations.
- Bilingual (Spanish or other languages) preferred.
Position Details:
- Schedule: Part-Time (flexible; aligned to caseload and service minutes, Likely 2-3 days/week)
- Location: Mebane, NC
- Reports To: EC Coordinator / Head of School