Speech Language Pathologist

Job Title:  Speech Language Pathologist

• The Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) provides assessment, diagnosis, and intervention for students with speech, language, and communication disorders. The SLP works collaboratively with teachers, parents, and other school staff to support students' academic and social success, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Holds a master’s degree or a higher degree from an accredited college or university that demonstrates successful completion of a graduate-level, accredited Speech-Language Pathology program;  or Certification of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association;
• Pass criminal background check and child maltreatment check.
• Experience working with children in a school or clinical setting is preferred.
• Knowledge of Arkansas special education laws and IDEA compliance.

REPORTS TO:  

• Building Principal
• Special Education Supervisor
• Superintendent

ESSENTIAL DUTIES, FUNCTIONS, AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Assessment and Diagnosis

1. Conduct comprehensive speech and language evaluations for students referred for potential communication disorders.
2. Analyze and interpret assessment results to determine the presence and severity of communication disorders.
3. Develop Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) based on student needs in compliance with IDEA and Arkansas state guidelines.

Intervention and Therapy

1. Provide evidence-based therapy for students with identified speech, language, voice, and fluency disorders.
2. Develop and implement individualized treatment plans to address specific communication needs.
3. Use a variety of instructional strategies and assistive technologies to enhance communication skills.
4. Monitor and document student progress toward IEP goals and adjust interventions as needed.

Collaboration and Consultation

1. Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other school personnel to integrate speech and language goals into the classroom environment.
2. Provide training and resources for teachers and staff to support communication development in students.
3. Serve as a member of the multidisciplinary team for the evaluation and placement of students.
4. Lead and communicate effectively and timely with stakeholders, in planning, conducting, and following up for meetings for students served by an IEP.

Compliance and Documentation

1. Maintain accurate and confidential records for all evaluations, therapy sessions, and communications with stakeholders.
2. Prepare reports, IEP documentation, and other required paperwork in a timely manner.
3. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and district policies regarding special education services.
4. Ongoing updating and maintaining the legal compliance of students with IEPs on paper and/or any electronic management system that the school district uses.
5. Uphold the law and maintain timely and accurate reporting on forms that are submitted for any funding including, but not limited to Medicaid.
6. Provide principals and Special Education Supervisor with a weekly schedule of students being served including the days and times.  Any adjustments made to the weekly schedule should also be reported to the principals and Special Education Supervisor.
7. Provide needed documentation to the school district to maintain the requirements needed for an SLP. 

Program Development

1. Participate in professional development opportunities to remain current on best practices in speech-language pathology.
2. Assist in the development of district-wide initiatives to support students with communication needs.
3. Advocate for and implement practices that promote inclusivity and equity for all students.

Key Competencies

• Attention to Detail: Ensure accuracy in assessments, documentation, and progress tracking.
• Collaboration: Work effectively with educators, parents, and administrators to support student success.
• Adaptability: Adjust interventions to meet the evolving needs of students and the school community.
• Student-Centered: Maintain a commitment to the growth and well-being of all students.

Other:

• The position requires travel between schools in the Hamburg School District as needed. Work may include occasional evening meetings for parent conferences or IEP team discussions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the principal or administrative staff.
• Maintain confidentiality of student information and records.
• Communicate effectively with students, teachers, parents, and administrators.
• Participate in professional development activities and staff meetings as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the teacher or school administration.
• Respond to administrative requests promptly.
• Comply with all federal and state laws and district policies.
• Comply with regulations as to hours of arrival and departure from school.
• Frequent walking throughout the school campus
• Moderate lifting or carrying (less than 30 pounds).
• Sitting for extended periods.
• Standing for extended periods.
• Maintain emotional control and exercise reasoning and problem-solving skills while under stress.
• Must be able to interpret procedures and analyze data for decision-making.
• Perform all duties safely and responsibly.  Observe all safety precautions.