Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLP-A)

General Definition of Work

Under the direct supervision of a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), the Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLP-A) supports the delivery of speech and language services to students with communication disorders. The SLP-A assists in implementing treatment plans, conducting therapy sessions, and documenting student progress, ensuring compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) guidelines, and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) standards.

Essential Functions

• Assist in conducting speech and language screenings and informal assessments as directed by the supervising SLP.
• Implement individualized treatment plans developed by the SLP to address articulation, language, fluency, voice, and other communication disorders.
• Provide direct therapy services to students in individual or group settings under SLP supervision.
• Prepare and organize therapy materials and equipment for sessions.
• Document student performance and progress toward IEP goals, maintaining accurate records and reports.
• Communicate effectively with students, families, and school staff regarding therapy activities and student progress, under the guidance of the SLP.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to discussions on student progress and therapy goals.
• Maintain a clean and safe therapy environment.
• Perform clerical duties related to speech-language services, such as scheduling and record-keeping.
• Adhere to ethical and professional standards as outlined by ASHA and VDOE.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of speech-language pathology principles and practices.
• Ability to implement therapy plans and follow SLP instructions accurately.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in maintaining detailed and accurate records.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems is preferred.

Education, Licensure, and Experience

Candidates must meet one of the following education pathways, consistent with Virginia's speech-language pathology assistant requirements (Va. Code § 54.1-2620):

• An associate's degree from a two-year Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program at an accredited institution; or
• A bachelor's degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders (CSD) or Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited institution; or
• An associate's or bachelor's degree in a related field, plus completion of an SLPA program or accredited coursework in introduction to communication disorders, phonetics, speech sound disorders, language development, language disorders, and anatomy and physiology of the speech and hearing mechanisms.

Licensure: Beginning July 1, 2027, Virginia requires speech-language pathology assistants to hold a current, active license from the Virginia Board of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology. The successful candidate must hold, or be eligible for and obtain, this license as required by law, and must maintain it as a condition of employment. Licensure requirements include Board-approved prerequisite courses (ethics, universal safety precautions, and patient confidentiality) and at least 100 hours of supervised clinical fieldwork. Candidates following the CSD pathway must also complete the ASHA SLPA online education modules or an equivalent program.

Preferred:

• Supervised clinical experience as an SLPA or student clinician.
• ASHA Certified Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (C-SLPA).
• Experience in a school or clinical setting.

Physical Conditions and Nature of Work Contacts

Work is typically performed in a school setting. Regular coordination with school administrators, teachers, and families is necessary. Daily contact is made with students, often requiring patience and empathy. Travel between school sites within Page County will be required.

Salary will be discussed at the time of interview.

PAGE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS conforms to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, who fully and actively supports equal access for all qualified applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information or Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law, and prohibits retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint, or otherwise oppose discrimination. It is our goal to increase the diversity in our workforce and to provide the best work environment possible. Our senior management team regularly receives and reviews affirmative action reports and has the responsibility to monitor progress, reinforce policies and hold the organization accountable to meet objectives.