Job Description: Speech-Language Pathology Assistant

Salary

Classified salary schedule, range 40. Initial placement shall be determined according to training and experience; maximum salary placement will be at mid-range. This position is covered by employee selected insurance plan. Benefits include holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

Definition

Under the direction of the Assistant Superintendent, Special Education or administrative designee, assists a Speech and Language Pathologist in speech/language therapy services for bilingual Spanish-speaking students identified as having special needs in the area of speech and language communication, such as developing pre-language and language skills, oral-motor control for speech production, vocalization, articulation and training and use of augmentative and alternative communication devices and technology.

Examples of Duties

Work at multiple school sites; administer, monitor and score a variety of speech-language tests in Spanish; collect language samples in Spanish, and later transcribe and interpret these samples; observe and control behavior of students according to approved procedures; assure the health and safety of students by following health and safety practices and procedures; maintain the confidentiality of student records and information according to established guidelines; interview Spanish speaking parents about issues related to speech and language development; assist with setting up meetings with Spanish speaking parents and interpreting during meetings; attend various in-service meetings as assigned; provides assistance in language development instruction to individuals or small groups of students, reinforcing instruction by the Speech-Language Pathologist; may assist or conduct speech-language screening or assessments, without interpretation; follows and implements documented treatment plans or protocols developed by a supervising Speech-Language Pathologist, including instructional and remedial exercises; documents results and progress toward the student’s treatment and individualized educational plan goals; confers with Speech-Language Pathologists, Student Support Services personnel and/or teachers concerning student needs; alerts to any special problems or information concerning students; assists in the development and/or selection of materials that enhance learning and communication skills and abilities; adapts or modifies instructional materials and/or equipment, as determined by student needs and abilities, for teacher use in the classroom; assists and guides students by providing appropriate role modeling, emotional support, patience, and a friendly and engaging attitude; must be discrete in responding to student behaviors and educational needs whenever possible; assists in maintaining health and safety of students by being constantly vigilant of environment and the potential hazards of student actions; performs a variety of related clerical services such as preparing and maintaining charts, records, graphs and data; scoring and recording tests, preparing and storing instructional materials and equipment; copying instructional materials, operating office machines, including computer, copier and other audio-visual equipment; assembles bulletin boards and other displays; may arrange classroom for planned activities; performs checks and maintenance of equipment, including but not limited to, augmentative communication devices; assists with research projects, in-service training, and family or community education; works and interacts with peers, as individuals and/or in team/group settings, in a professional manner that contributes to the District’s academic achievement goals; performs other duties as assigned that support the overall objective of the position.

Employment Standards

Education and Experience: Any combination equivalent to graduation from high school. Requires an associate’s degree or equivalent in a speech-language pathology assistant program and one year of experience in speech/language or special education related areas.

Knowledge and Abilities: Knowledge of speech and language development; understanding of the principles and practices surrounding speech/language and hearing pathology; working knowledge of treatment documentation methods and privacy requirements for data; knowledge of teaching and instruction methods that enhance remedial learning; knowledge of the California Business and Professions Code for Speech-Language Pathology Assistant; working knowledge of personal computer operations including common office productivity software, internet, and specialized computer-aided programs supporting diagnostic assessment; sufficient human relations skills to work productively, and achieve and maintain trust and cooperation with supervisors, teachers, colleagues, students and parents in formal and informal settings; sufficient writing skills sufficient to document treatments using appropriate terminology; knowledge of safe practices in classroom activities; knowledge of correct English usage, grammar and vocabulary skills; requires the ability to carry out the functions and objectives of the position; assist speech-language and teaching staff with implementation of instructional goals and activities in a classroom, small group or individual learning environment; use good judgment in making independent decisions to respond to student needs and selecting appropriate techniques to be used with students; accurately record and document screening and treatment data in formats that enable further evaluations; work effectively with professionals and fellow paraprofessionals in carrying out regular and remedial instructional programs.  Interact successfully with parents, students, supervisors, and school staff; present self in a professional manner and establish and maintain effective relationships with those contacted in the course of work; relate positively to students in a teaching/learning environment in a way that builds confidence, recognizes and works on learning disabilities and barriers; exercise patience when conveying information, and demonstrate sensitivity to the special needs of students; understand the principles of positive reinforcement as they apply to the management of students; maintain confidentiality of student and school information; learn district and state regulations, policies and objectives applicable to assigned programs; setup and maintain records; prepare documentation and reports as needed; operate instructional and office equipment; optimize a work schedule that may involve multiple locations.Must be proficient in oral and written Spanish. Must pass both oral and written District bilingual exam.

Licenses and Other Requirements: Requires valid certification as a Speech-Language Pathology Assistant through the State of California or ability to obtain certification; requires a valid California driver’s license.

Physical Abilities: Requires the ability to function effectively in classroom and office environments, engaged in work of a sedentary to moderately active nature; ambulatory ability to move to various school sites, classrooms and meeting room settings; hand-eye-arm coordination ability to use special diagnostic devices and a personal computer keyboard to access and record information; visual ability to recognize words, numbers, and non-verbal actions of people; and auditory ability to project voice and carry out conversations with individuals and small groups in person and over the phone.