The Opportunity
The Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) is responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating students in grades K-12 with speech (including articulation, phonological, voice, resonance, and fluency disorders), language, and social communication disorders. He/she also serves as a campus consultant for staff, teachers, and parents on issues related to speech and language development. The SLP is responsible for maintaining accurate clinical records for students receiving speech therapy. This position furthers the mission of KIPP Texas as it helps ensure that all students with communication disorders receive the specialized interventions they need to make meaningful progress and lead a life of choice.
Key Responsibilities
Evaluate students with speech impairments
a. Observe students who are having speech difficulties as noticed by parents or teachers who suspect an impairment
b. Assess and evaluate students to determine if a speech impairment is present and to determine eligibility for services
c. Recommend in-classroom interventions prior to therapy referral
d. Participate in Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee meetings to interpret
assessments and to discuss appropriate placement and goal setting for student identified as having speech or language impairments
e. Participate in KIPP Houstonās All Children Will Learn (ACWL) committee meetings to discuss interventions and pre-referral recommendations
Provide therapy to students that are identified as speech impaired
a. Meet with students on a regular basis to ensure services are provided as indicated in the ARD document ; Closely follow therapy schedule and provide make-up sessions when necessary
b. Provide therapy in the areas of language, articulation, fluency, and voice disorders
c. Implement Best Practices related to therapy techniques
d. Complete clinical records and paperwork associated with speech services
e. Provide students with Speech report cards each quarter to track progress
Evaluate the effectiveness of speech therapy
a. Assist teachers and parents in monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of speech therapy throughout the year
b. Anticipate areas where there is a need for more development or improvement
c. Meet with the ARD committee to discuss progress, interpret test results, and/or modify studentsā IEPs
d. Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents regarding the accomplishment of therapy goals and needs of each student
Provide informative workshops for educators, school leaders and faculty members
a. Work with members of the Special Education Team in S 3 to provide at least one workshop per year at each KIPP Houston campus; Address issues such as developmental and educational norms for speech and in-classroom interventions
b. Provide educators and parents with resources related to speech and language
c. Assist school personnel in the identification and understanding of students with communication deficits
Attend and participate in monthly Special Education meetings with the Director of Special Populations