HARRISONBURG CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION SUMMARY:

The SLPA will work under the general supervision of a credentialed Speech/Language Pathologist/Therapist as guided by ASHA's current Code of Ethics and Scope of Practice. The SLPA will assist in providing instruction specific to the area of speech and language communication to students identified as having special needs; monitor the use of augmentative communication devices and systems; provide student support through a variety of follow-up instructional and/or behavior modification activities; provide medical/physical assistance to assigned students; assist in the conduct of training and behavior modification activities with children experiencing special learning and/or behavior needs, and to do other related work as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Associates degree required (Bachelor’s degree preferred).
2. Prior SLPA experience in educational or clinical settings is preferred.
3. Knowledge of: Language, articulation, and hearing disorders. Basic concepts of child growth and development behavior characteristics, particularly pertaining to students with special needs. 
4. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present to diverse audiences, specifically racially, ethnically, and socioeconomically diverse communities to foster professional relationships and express and/or exchange ideas.  
5. Experience working directly with individuals and families from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
6. Experience working with diverse learning needs and with children that may benefit from alternative learning models is preferred.
7. Effectively demonstrates the ability to perform the essential functions.
8. Experience working directly with individuals and families from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
9. Familiarity with equity and inclusion frameworks.  Models non-discriminatory practices in all activities.  Respects the worth, dignity and individual differences of others.
10. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to present to diverse audiences to foster professional relationships and express and/or exchange ideas.  
11. Excellent interpersonal skills.
12. Proficiency in the use of a variety of office/instructional equipment and technology with experience using Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and email.
13. Demonstrated leadership qualities and personal characteristics necessary for working effectively with students, teachers, administrators, and the community.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Assists in providing speech therapy services according to Individual Education Program (IEP) goals and treatment plans developed by Speech/Language Pathologist/Therapist.
2. Assists instructional personnel in the implementation of students' individual educational plans.
3. Assists with conducting speech-language screenings, using appropriate prescribed techniques and devices; confers with Speech/Language Pathologist/Therapist regarding student progress.
4. Documents student progress toward IEP goals and objectives by preparing records, charts, and other means of documentation.
5. Performs a variety of clerical support duties such as maintaining records, files and preparing reports related to assigned students.
6. Adapts or modifies instructional materials as determined by student needs for teacher use in the classroom. Inspects, maintains, and operates augmentative communication devices and equipment.
7. Assists in behavior management through the use of positive reinforcement strategies and other appropriate techniques. Maintains or assists in maintaining an orderly, attractive, and positive environment.
8. Attends a variety of meetings, workshops, and in-service trainings to maintain current knowledge of developments in the field of Speech and Language Pathology.
9. Assist in providing speech therapy services for identified students according to IEP goals.  
10. Maintain records related to assigned students and activities. 
11. Monitor and assist in evaluating student progress. 
12. Appropriately manage student behavior. 
13. Observe health and safety regulations. 
14. Demonstrate adaptability to changing circumstances and priorities within the learning environment. 
15. Learn to utilize a variety of appropriate speech/language instructional materials and procedures. Understand and carry out oral and written directions. 
16. Takes all industry standard precautions to protect students, staff, equipment, materials, and facilities.
17. Maintains appropriate state licensure; assumes responsibility for and participates in staff development (professional growth) and training to keep materials, supplies, and skills up-to-date.
18. Follows appropriate safety procedures and properly maintains equipment.
19. Actively participates in and attends all required meetings.
20. Maintains confidentiality when appropriate.
21. Complies with and supports school division policies, regulations, procedures, and the HCPS Strategic Plan.
22. Effectively performs other duties as assigned by immediate supervisor.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Light work, lifting up to 25 pounds occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds frequently.  Regular travel throughout the school and effectively interact with students, staff, and the school community.  Regular contact with staff members is required.  Not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

EVALUATION:

Performance will be evaluated in accordance with school board policy and administrative regulations on the evaluation of administrative or licensed personnel.

The above is intended to describe the essential functions of and requirements for the performance of this position.  It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of the duties, responsibilities and requirements of this position.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions and meet the demands of this position.