Speech Language Pathologist

Job Summary:

The Speech Language Pathologist reports directly to the School Principal and the Student Special Services Director of the Springfield School District.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Other duties may be assigned.

The Speech Language Pathologist assesses and screens 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 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.

Coordinates meetings and processes for eligible students (e.g. testing/screening, IEPs, parent conferences, pre-referral staffing, etc.) for the purpose of presenting evaluation results, developing treatment plans, and/or providing training to parents/students/staff.

Develops treatment plans, interventions and/or educational materials for the purpose of minimizing the adverse impact of communication disorders in compliance with regulatory requirements.

Instructs assigned support staff for the purpose of providing information on communicative disorders, use of assistive devices and other techniques and/or implementing prescribed treatment plans.

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.

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.

Maintains files and/or records (e.g. progress reports, activity logs, billing information, treatment plans, required documentation, screening results, etc.) for the purpose of ensuring the availability of information as required for reference and/or compliance.

Participates in meetings, workshops, and seminars (e.g. training, IEPs, team meetings, etc.) for the purpose of conveying and/or gathering information.

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

Prepares a wide variety of written materials (e.g. activity logs, correspondence, memos, treatment plans, 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 for the purpose of minimizing the adverse impact of speech and language disorders on student success.

Responds to inquiries (e.g. parents, teachers, staff, students, etc.) for the purpose of providing information and/or referral as appropriate.

Job Requirements: Vermont Certification as Speech Language Pathologist through

Department of Education, Certification of Clinical Competencies (CCCs). Clinical fellows will be considered.

Speech Language skills are required to perform multiple, highly complex, 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; and preparing and maintaining accurate records. Knowledge of specific knowledge­ based competencies are 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.

The ability to be flexible is required to successfully perform the functions of the job. Areas of which flexibility is required may 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.

Supervision Received : Reports to, receives daily work assignments, and is evaluated by the Principal.

Supervisory Responsibilities : None

Qualification Requirements : To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each job function in an efficient and compliant manner. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the job functions.

• Education and Experience : Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences or Disorders (or something similar) from an accredited institution. Vermont teaching endorsement and clinical licensure from the Vermont Office of Professional Regulation are required, including all Endorsement Competencies outlined by the Vermont Agency of Education as well as SLP Statutes and Rules under the Office of Professional Regulation.

1. Language Skills : Ability to read and write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals.
2. Mathematical Skills : Good basic mathematical skills including the ability to calculate percentages, proportions, averages, and other concepts of basic algebra.
3. Reasoning Ability/Mental Requirements : Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out detailed written or oral instructions. Ability to deal with problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
4. Communication & Interpersonal Skills : Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively resolve conflicts; to communicate courteously, efficiently and effectively with a variety of individuals, including students, faculty, administrators, parents, and representatives of outside organizations.

1. Other Skills and Abilities :

• 1. Valid driver’s license.
• 2. Attention to detail is essential.
• 3. Patience, empathy, and a passion for working with students with diverse needs.
• 4. Ability to maintain confidentiality in all aspects of the job in accordance with federal and state federal law and regulations, and Springfield School District policy and procedures is required.
• 5. Strong organizational skills are essential.
• 6. Strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills are essential.
• 7. Follow through and follow-up skills are essential.
• 8. Operating knowledge of and experience with typical office equipment, including: telephones, copier, scanner, printer, calculator, postage meter and fax machine is essential.
• 9. Working knowledge of personal computer applications including Microsoft Office Windows Suite and Google Suite.

Competencies . The individual in this position must possess the following:

1. Attention to Detail : being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
2. Cooperation : being pleasant on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
3. Concern for Others : being sensitive to others’ needs and feelings and understanding on the job.

Patience, empathy, and a passion for working with students with diverse needs.

1. Dependability : being reliable, punctual, and responsible and fulfilling obligations.
2. Stress Tolerance : accepting feedback from your supervisor and colleagues as well as, dealing calmly and effectively with high stress situations.