Speech Language Pathologist

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Speech/Language Pathologist (SLP) will assist Jefferson RISE students in developing speech and language skills to facilitate their personal, social, and intellectual development. In order to respond to the individual needs and abilities of students, the SLP must work closely with other members of the RISE team. The SLP is responsible for screening and assessment; goal development; and planning/implementing appropriate speech and language treatment services to maximize student learning.

As a charter school, Jefferson RISE sets its own academic calendar and daily/weekly schedule based on the needs of its students. Leadership staff work on a 12-month schedule and prospective candidates should expect to start on or around July 18th, 2022. The workday for leaders in the organization is variable; while most staff members are required to be in the building from 6:45am to 3:15pm or later (depending on after school activities), Administrative Team members may have duties outside of these times and alternative schedules will be determined in conjunction with the CEO. 

In addition to role-specific duties, all Jefferson RISE staff members are also expected to:

• Support school operations, including lunch duty and/or homeroom duty, as needed 
• Working with individual or small groups of teachers or students as needed during and/or after the formal school day
• Communicate with families on a regular basis
• Attend a weekly one-on-one meeting with their supervisor to discuss performance, student needs, school needs, and other items that may arise
• Complete all compliance paperwork as required by the school, state or local officials, or the school’s board 
• Be willing to teach a class at least one semester a year 

Other duties may be assigned as needed.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Speech/Language Supports  

• Evaluates and assesses the student’s functional status to identify and determine needs for speech/language therapy.
• Selects, administers, and interprets specialized hearing and speech tests.
• Gathers background information as necessary on the student’s educational, medical, social, and psychological history to assist with determining possible causes of speech disorders.
•  Serves a member of an interdisciplinary team and participates in the student support team, IEP, staffing, and eligibility meetings as required.
• Develops individualized education plans for students receiving speech/language therapy services and implements therapy sessions that target IEP goals.
• Chooses appropriate activities for developing the student’s speech, voice, fluency, and language skills.
• Instructs students on how to monitor their own speech and provides ways to practice skills.
• Recommends the adaptation of the student’s learning environment as necessary. 
• Provides consultation to teachers and staff members to ensure the integration of speech/language development techniques into the student’s classroom routine.
• Monitors student progress, reevaluates IEP objectives, and adjusts delivery of speech/language services as appropriate.
• Conferences with parents/guardians and provides them with support and information regarding their child.
• Instructs parents/guardians in exercises to implement at home and in the care and use of specialized equipment.
• Serves as a resource to staff members and conducts workshops regarding speech/language services and proper procedures for the identification and referral of students.
• Consults with physicians and other agencies as necessary and assists with referring students to appropriate specialists
• Adheres to legal and ethical standards and guidelines regarding the provision of speech/language services.
• Maintains thorough records for each student receiving speech/language services at the assigned school(s) and provides related reports.

2. School and Community Culture

• Embody and lead the mission, vision, and strategic direction of the school, taking an active role in mobilizing staff members to achieve the collective goals of the school
• Support programs that promote positive student behavior and academic mindsets, and that motivate students to exhibit the leadership values of the school
• Build community by investing families in students’ academic success and long-term career goals

3. Administrative and Other Duties 

• Develop clear, written plans for key activities and workstreams with input from other staff members
• Complete all administrative requirements before given deadlines

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Experience and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree (required)
• Master’s degree in speech language pathology (required)
• Licensure as a Speech/Language Pathologist (required)
• Experience as a school-based Speech/Language Pathologist (required)
• Experience with coaching and supporting other adults in a school-based setting (required)
• Experience developing and leading student programs (preferred)
• Technological proficiency in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint as well as other web-based applications
• Excellent communication skills
• High level of personal organization and planning

Culture and Fit:

• Commitment to the mission and organizational success of Jefferson RISE 
• Ambition and desire to grow as a leader 
• Openness to feedback and a willingness to take personal responsibility for the affairs of the school 
• Entrepreneurial spirit 
• Personal and professional integrity 
• Team player (flexible, willing to jump in)