What are the responsibilities and job description for the Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 35) - Multiple Openings District Wide position at Portland Public Schools?
TITLE: Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 35) - Multiple Openings District Wide
POSITION OVERVIEW:
Portland Public Schools seeks licensed, ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP) to provide developmentally appropriate speech and language services for children ages 35 across district early childhood settings, including public pre-K and specialized early childhood programs.
SLPs will join a collaborative, multidisciplinary early childhood team of teachers, ed-techs, social workers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. This role emphasizes play-based, inclusive practices that support communication development within natural routines and environments, and strong partnerships with families and educators.
** There are multiple openings available for the 2026-2027 school year. **
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Conduct comprehensive, developmentally appropriate assessments of speech, language, social communication, and early literacy skills for children ages 35
- Provide direct, play-based intervention embedded within classroom routines and natural environments
- Collaborate closely with early childhood educators and related service providers to integrate communication strategies throughout the day
- Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) aligned with state and federal regulations, with goals that reflect functional communication in early learning contexts
- Serve as case manager for students with speech/language disabilities, ensuring compliance and coordination of services
- Support inclusive practices by helping teams implement strategies within the least restrictive environment appropriate for young children
- Coach and consult with staff on developmentally appropriate practices, language facilitation strategies, and positive, relationship-based approaches
- Partner with families to support carryover of communication strategies across home and school environments
- Participate in transition planning for children entering or exiting early childhood programs (e.g., Part C to Part B, Pre-K to Kindergarten)
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:
- Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Speech-Language Pathology
- Preference will be given to candidates with:
- Experience working with young children (ages 35) in early childhood or preschool settings
- Knowledge of child development, early language acquisition, and play-based intervention approaches
- Experience with family-centered practices and interdisciplinary teaming
CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Maine State Speech Pathologist License (more info)
- Maine State CHRC authorization (cost is $70 - more info here)
- ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred
EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:
- Schedule: School Year, Full Time (1.0 FTE)
- Assignment: Permanent
- Contract: Part of PEA union (see 2025-2028 CBA here)
- Salary: Based on education and experience, as outlined in CBA
- Overtime: Not eligible for overtime
- Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here
ABOUT PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS:
Portland Public Schools is one of the most diverse district's north of Boston, MA, with more than 50 languages spoken by our students and their families. It is the largest district in the state of Maine, serving almost 7,000 students from Pre-K to 12th grade, spread across 20 building and partner sites.
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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.