Speech/Language Pathologist

Purpose Statement
The job of Speech Pathologist was established for the purpose/s of identifying students with communication disabilities; planning and implementing appropriate treatment to minimize adverse impact on student success; recommending treatment plans; and providing direction to support personnel.

This job reports to Director-Special Education

Essential Functions
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Assesses all students' communication skills at the second grade level (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.
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Collaborates with a variety of groups and/or individuals (e.g. parents, teachers, physicians, administration, team members, other professionals, etc.) for the purpose of communicating information, resolving issues and providing services in compliance with established guidelines.
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Coordinates meetings and processes for eligible students (e.g. testing/screening, IEPs, parent conferences, prereferral staffing, etc.) for the purpose of presenting evaluation results, developing treatment plans, and/or providing training to parents/students/staff.
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Develops treatment plans, interventions and/or educational materials for the purpose of minimizing the adverse impact of communication disorders in compliance with regulatory requirements.
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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.
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Instructs assigned support staff and supports family members for the purpose of providing information on
communicative disorders, use of assistive devices and feeding techniques and/or implementing prescribed treatment plans.
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Interprets medical reports within the scope of Speech/Language Pathologist's experience and goals for the purpose of providing information and/or ensuring that treatment/intervention plans are appropriate.
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Maintains files and/or records (e.g. progress reports, activity logs, billing information, treatment plans, required documentation, quarterly reports, screening results, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the availability of information as required for reference and/or compliance.
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Participates in meetings, workshops, and seminars (e.g. training, IEPs, team meetings, etc.) for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information.
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Provides aural rehabilitative and counseling services to individuals with hearing loss and to their families for the purpose of providing recommendations for personal improvement methods and at-home techniques.
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Researches resources and methods (e.g. intervention and treatment techniques, assessment tools and methods, community resources, etc.) for the purpose of determining the appropriate approach for addressing students' needs.
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Responds to inquiries and concerns regarding student communication issues (e.g. parents, teachers, staff, students, etc.) for the purpose of providing information and/or referral as appropriate.

Other Functions

Performs other related duties as assigned for the purpose of ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications
Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

SKILLS are required to perform multiple, highly complex, technical tasks with a need to periodically 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; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.

KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; review and interpret highly technical information, write technical materials, and/or speak persuasively to implement desired actions; and analyze situations to define issues and draw conclusions. 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; and 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 but different processes; and operate equipment using a variety of standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a significant diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with data of varied types and/or purposes; and utilize job-related equipment. Independent problem solving is required to analyze issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data frequently 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; and translating therapy data into meaningful educational activities.

Responsibility
Responsibilities include: working under limited supervision using standardized practices and/or methods; leading, guiding, and/or coordinating others; and tracking budget expenditures. Utilization of some resources from other work units is often required to perform the job's functions. There is a continual opportunity to impact the organization’s services.

Work Environment
The usual and customary methods of performing the job's functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling; some stooping, kneeling, crouching, and/or crawling; and significant fine finger dexterity. Generally the job requires 50% sitting, 30% walking, and 20% standing. The job is performed under conditions with some exposure to risk of injury and/or illness.

Experience: Job related experience within specialized field is required.

Education: Masters degree in job related area.
Equivalency: None Specified
Required Testing: None Specified
Continuing Educ. / Training: Maintain Certificate/License
Certificates Licenses: Certificate of Clinical Competence, State License
Clearances: Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Grade: Certificated