Our Disciplines

Speech-language pathologists work with people of all ages from children to adults. 

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A School-Based Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) is a licensed clinician who works within the school system to assess, diagnose, and treat students with communication challenges. These challenges may include difficulties with articulation, language comprehension, fluency (stuttering), voice, and social communication skills.

 

SLPs play a critical role in helping students succeed academically and socially. They provide direct therapy services, collaborate with teachers and staff, participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, and help ensure that students with speech and language needs receive appropriate accommodations and support.

 

By supporting communication development, school-based SLPs help remove barriers to learning and empower students to express themselves effectively, build confidence, and thrive in the classroom.

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Key Services and Tasks of School-Based SLPs

• Conduct comprehensive speech and language evaluations

• Develop and implement Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

• Provide direct therapy for articulation, language, fluency, voice, and social communication

• Monitor and document student progress

• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and support staff

• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and IEP reviews

• Provide consultation on classroom strategies and accommodations

• Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations

• Support students with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) needs

• Train school staff on speech and language development issues​

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A Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) is a trained and certified professional who supports licensed Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in delivering speech and language services in schools.

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Under the supervision of an SLP, SLPAs help assist to assess, and treat various school based speech and language disorders. SLPAs provide direct therapy to students, assist with screenings, prepare therapy materials, and help document progress.

 

SLPAs extend the reach of SLPs by increasing service availability and supporting students more consistently. They work closely with their supervising SLP to ensure that every child receives effective, individualized care in alignment with their IEP goals.

 

SLPAs are a vital part of the school therapy team, helping to meet growing caseload demands while maintaining quality and continuity of services.

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Key Services and Tasks of School-Based SLPAs

• Implement therapy plans developed by the supervising SLP

• Provide direct therapy services under supervision

• Assist with speech and language screenings

• Prepare therapy materials and resources

• Document student performance and session notes

• Support data collection for progress monitoring

• Communicate observations and concerns to the supervising SLP

• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines

• Promote student participation during therapy sessions

• Support generalization of skills across school settings

Supervising Speech-Language Pathologists oversee and guide Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs) to ensure the delivery of ethical, high-quality services in school settings. Supervisors are responsible for evaluating student needs, developing treatment plans, and assigning appropriate tasks to SLPAs based on each student's goals and the assistant’s training.

 

They provide ongoing support, mentorship, and direct observation to maintain compliance with state and federal regulations. Supervising SLPs ensure that therapy services are aligned with best practices and educational standards, while also fostering professional growth in their SLPAs.

 

This leadership role strengthens service delivery, enhances collaboration, and helps schools maintain consistent, effective support for students with communication needs.

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Key Services and Tasks of School-Based SLP-Supervisor

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• Develop and assign therapy plans for SLPAs

• Conduct initial and ongoing evaluations of students

• Observe and provide feedback to SLPAs

• Ensure all services provided by SLPAs meet state and district guidelines

• Document supervision in accordance with licensure requirements

• Adjust therapy plans based on student progress and needs

• Serve as the primary point of contact for IEP meetings and parent communication

• Provide mentorship and professional development for SLPAs

• Review and co-sign documentation completed by SLPAs

• Monitor ethical and legal compliance of all delegated tasks