Speech and Language Pathology Assistant

Seeking a Speech/Language Pathology Assistant for the upcoming 2024/2025 school year. This position is for the school year only and is for 6.5 hours per day for 5 days per week. A locally competitive salary commensurate with experience and educational attainment is offered.Description: The speech-language pathologist assistant is accountable for providing therapeutic services to students with speech and language disorders consistent with the policies of the North Adams Public Schools, in compliance with state and federal special education regulations, and with supervision from a licensed speech-language pathologist.SKILLS AND ABILITIES:To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and /or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Knowledge of evidence-based practices, programs, and techniques for addressing speech and language disorders.Knowledge of child and adolescent development.Strong skills in and knowledge about creating routines and incentives for students.Strong interpersonal communication skills to take direction from and collaborate with others.Ability to consult and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, with parents, students, teachers, and colleagues.Ability to organize and prioritize, plan, organize, and schedule therapy activities and program-related paperwork.Bilingual in Spanish or Portuguese a plus.Proficiency in using technology for documentation and therapy purposes.Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Under the direction of the supervising Speech-Language Pathologist, implement remedial programs, strategies and techniques for students with language, speech, and hearing disabilities; implement behavior management techniques; and implement Individual Educational Plans (IEPs) for eligible students.Works collaboratively with school-based SLPs to provide students individual and group therapy sessions.Assists in the implementation of speech and language therapy interventions as directed by the supervising SLP.Supports students in developing and improving speech articulation, language comprehension, language expression, fluency and social communication skills.Monitors and records student progress; consults regularly with supervising Speech-Language Pathologist about students;Prepares and maintains a variety of records related to therapy performance, student progress, and program activities; maintains a schedule outlining program activities.Attends and participates in a variety of meetings, conferences, workshops, seminars and committees;Operates a variety of instructional and office equipment, including a computer and assigned software. Performs related duties as assigned.Assists in selecting appropriate materials and equipment for therapy.Assists in establishing schedules for therapy sessions.Establishes and maintains effective and efficient record-keeping procedures.Maintains and in-depth knowledge of the laws and policies governing Special Education in Massachusetts, particularly as they pertain to the delivery of speech/language therapy services as an SPLA.Maintain accurate daily records and data collection to document students' attendance, progress, including requirements for Medicaid.Manages time, materials, and equipment effectively.Maintains confidentiality and adheres to ethical guidelines in accordance with state and federal regulations.Performs other duties as assigned.The Committee's policy of nondiscrimination will extend to students, staff, the general public, and individuals with whom it does business; No person shall be excluded from or discriminated against in admission to a public school of any town or in obtaining the advantages, privileges, and courses of study of such public school on account of age, race, color, sex, gender identity, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or homelessness.

Job Requirements
A Bachelor's degree in Speech Language Pathology, Communication Disorders, or related field.Massachusetts SPLA license through the Board of Allied HealthExperience working with children or adolescents in a school setting or related experience preferred.Special Knowledge/Abilities For Position: Working knowledge of basic office procedures and the operation of common office equipment and machines. Ability to work well with numerous departments and agencies. Must be able to work independently. Must be able to comprehend verbal and written instructions. Fluent in Microsoft Word.Physical Requirements: The position requires a moderate amount of walking, standing, sitting and climbing stairs and step stool whenever necessary. Activities also include moderate physical exertion in body movement such as reaching, bending, twisting, grasping, pushing, and pulling of objects. The position requires lifting of objects of 20 pounds on a frequent basis, and over 20 pounds occasionally. There is a frequent requirement of fine manipulation associated with the required use of a computer, typewriter, keyboard, calculator, and other business machines.Environmental Conditions: The occupant is required to work indoors. The regular chemical solvents used are toners, inks, and cleaning fluids. The occupant may come into contact with medical and/or bodily fluids.