SCHOOL/DEPARTMENT: Depending on Need

TYPE: Classified STATUS: Non-Exempt SALARY: ($30.10, 9-month position, Full Benefit Package) WORK CALENDAR: 191 Day, 7 hours per day. START DATE: July 2024

REPORTS TO:  School Principal & Director of Exceptional Student Services

DEFINITION: Under general supervision, assists to provide speech/language services to District students with exceptionalities in compliance with state and federal guidelines for Somerton School District No. 11.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TASKS:

Assesses students' communication skills (e.g. articulation, fluency, voice, expressive and receptive language, etc.) for the purpose of identifying communication disorders, determining program eligibility and developing recommendations for treatment. Collaborates with a supervisor for the purpose of communicating information, resolving issues and providing services in compliance with established guidelines. Instructs eligible students in the use of appropriate communication technologies (e.g. hearing aids, FM systems, augmentative communication devices, etc.) for the purpose of minimizing the adverse educational impact of communication disorders in accordance with established guidelines and legal requirements. Maintains files and/or records (e.g. progress reports, activity logs, billing information, screening results, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the availability of information as required for reference in accordance with District guidelines and legal requirements. Participates in meetings, workshops, and seminars (e.g. training, IEPs, Student Assistance Team, etc.) for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information. Performs site visits at multiple work sites for the purpose of providing therapy and assistance as required. Prepares a wide variety of written materials (e.g. activity logs, correspondence, memos, Medicaid billings, reports, required documentation, etc.) for the purpose of documenting activities, providing written reference, and/or conveying information. Provides speech and language therapy to students in accordance with mandated timelines, district procedures and state and federal requirements for the purpose of implementing IEPs in compliance within established guidelines and minimizing the adverse impact of speech and language disorders on student success. Reports health and safety issues to assigned administrator and appropriate agencies (e.g. fights, suspected child or substance abuse, inappropriate social behavior, etc.) for the purpose of maintaining students personal safety, a positive learning environment and complying with regulatory requirements and established guidelines. Responds to inquiries (e.g. parents, teachers, staff, students, etc.) for the purpose of providing information and/or referring to appropriate personnel. Schedules student therapies for the purpose of directing services in a timely manner. Submits Medicaid billings for the purpose of conforming to established District policies and requirements. Transports supplies and equipment to a variety of sites for the purpose of ensuring the availability of items as needed. Works under appropriate supervision using standardized practices and/or methods; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others. Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND OTHER CHARACTERISTICS: 

SKILLS are required to perform multiple, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying assessment instruments; operating specialized equipment used in the treatment of communication disorders; operating standard office equipment including pertinent computer software; preparing and maintaining accurate records.

KNOWLEDGE is required to review and interpret technical information, speak persuasively to implement desired actions; and understand complex, multi-step written and oral instructions. Specific knowledge based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing mechanisms and disorders; principles and practices of speech and language therapy; pertinent codes, policies, regulations and/or laws.

ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined and similar processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with data of widely varied types and/or purposes; and utilize job-related equipment. Problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is significant. Specific ability based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: adapting to changing work priorities; communicating with diverse groups; utilizing specialized equipment in communication disorders; maintaining confidentiality; meeting deadlines and schedules; working as part of a team; working with detailed information/data; maintaining effective working relationships; a keen sense of hearing; and translating therapy data into meaningful educational activities.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments. Work requires frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting and/or carrying up to 30 pounds. May be exposed to infectious diseases and body fluid borne pathogens.

QUALIFICATIONS: 

Associate's Degree in Speech Language Pathologist Assistant Program with appropriate SLP-A certification or A.A. with certificate as a speech language pathology assistant. Must possess or eligible to obtain and maintain an Arizona State SLP-A License. SLPA experience preferred. Fingerprint Clearance Card (IVP) required at the time of hiring.