Speech Language Pathology Paraprofessional

Hours Per Day:

8 hours

SUMMARY

Under basic supervision, provides special needs students with guidance and therapy in the attainment of educational goals; provides assistance to Minot Public School (MPS) Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) as needed to provide a positive learning and socialization environment for the students.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS __ Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This list is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class. Employees are required to be in attendance and prepared to begin work at their assigned work location on the specified days and hours. Factors such as regular attendance at the job are not routinely listed in job descriptions, but are an essential function. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Provides guidance and direct therapy to students.
• Executes specific component of a speech language program as specified on treatment plans developed by the supervising SLP.
• Documents student, patient, and client performance and reports information to supervisor.
• Assists with clerical duties to include preparing materials and scheduling activities.
• Assists the SLP with speech, language, and hearing screenings without clinical interpretation.
• Programs and provides instruction in the use of augmentative and alternative communication devices.
• Demonstrates or shares information with patients, families, and staff regarding feeding strategies developed band directed by the SLP.
• Presents primary prevention information to individuals and groups known to be at risk for
• Participates in checking and maintaining equipment.
• Assists with various departmental operations.
• May support the supervision SLP in research projects, in-service training, public relations programs, and marketing programs.
• Supports the relationship between the Minot Public School District and the general public by demonstrating courteous and cooperative behavior when interacting with clients, visitors, and District staff; maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, client records, and District information; follows compliance rules governing child abuse; performs related duties as required or assigned.

Education, Training and Experience Guidelines

An SLPA must complete an approved course of academic study, field work under the supervision of an ASHA-certified and/or licensed SLP, and on-the-job training specific to SLPA responsibilities and workplace behaviors. The academic course of study must include or be equivalent to an associate's degree in an SLPA program or a bachelor's degree in a speech-language pathology or communication disorders program and successful completion of a minimum of one hundred (100) hours of supervised field work experience or its clinical experience equivalent and demonstration of competency in the skills required of an SLPA. Must pass a thorough background investigation.

Knowledge of:

• Department policies and procedures.
• Federal, State, and local ordinances, statute, rules, and codes.
• Record keeping and file maintenance principles and procedures.
• Safety rules and regulations, occupational hazards, and safety precautions.

Skill in:

• Monitoring and improving student behavior and learning skills.
• Assisting children and special needs students, and assessing educational needs.
• Maintaining composure, and working effectively in classroom and school facility environments.
• Dealing tactfully and courteously with students, using patience, understanding, and caring.
• Assisting students to improve learning, behavior, and socialization skills.
• Following verbal and written instructions and procedures.
• Establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships with co-workers.
• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing.

LICENSE AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

A valid North Dakota State Driver's License may be required; Paraprofessional certification preferred; Additional certifications may also be required as specified by the District.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT

Work is performed in MPS schools and facilities, and requires working with children; work involves intense concentration on activities taking place around one's location on a constant basis throughout the entire work day; may be required to physically restrain students if they are at risk of hurting themselves or others.

This position is subject to veteran's preference.