Para Educator - Speech & Language Pathologist

Para Educator - Speech and Language Pathologist

Purpose Statement

The job of Speech and Language Pathologist Para Educator is done for the purpose/s of assisting in implementing treatment plans, services and interventions developed by a Licensed Speech and Language Pathologist for students with communication disabilities.

This job reports to Speech and Language Pathologist and Assistant Director of Special Education.

Essential Functions

·        Adapt and/or adjusts educational materials and equipment for providing interventions and/or meeting individual student`s needs in accordance with their IEP.

·        Assist with data collection regarding a students’ abilities in articulation, language, voice, and fluency (e.g. screenings, meetings, observations, etc.) for assessment and assisting the licensed Speech and Language Pathologist in developing therapeutic interventions.

·        Instruct eligible students in the use of appropriate communication technologies under the supervision of a licensed Speech and Language Pathologist (e.g. augmentative communication devices, etc.) for minimizing the adverse educational impact of communication disorders in accordance with established guidelines and legal requirements.

·        Maintain files and/or records (e.g. treatment plans, progress reports, therapy logs, screening results, etc.) for ensuring the availability of information as required for reference and/or documentation of compliance with IEP`s, District policies and other requirements.

·        Observe students in classrooms, at school events and in the home environment (e.g. monitor progress, identify need for services, etc.) for gathering information speech and language development and classroom performance.

·        Participate in meetings, workshops, and seminars (e.g. training, IEPs, team meetings, etc.) for conveying and/or gathering information.

·        Provide speech and language therapy to students under the direction of a licensed Speech and Language Pathologist for minimizing the adverse impact of speech and language disorders on student success.

·        Transport supplies and equipment to a variety of sites for ensuring the availability of items as needed.

·        Travel to work sites (e.g. various school sites, home visits, etc.) for providing therapy and assistance as required.

Other Functions

·       Performs other related duties as assigned for ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the work unit.

Job Requirements: Minimum Qualifications

Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

SKILLS are required to perform single, technical tasks with a need to occasionally upgrade skills in order to meet changing job conditions. Specific skill-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include utilization of assessment instruments; operating specialized equipment used in the treatment of communication disorders; operating standard office equipment including pertinent computer software; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.

KNOWLEDGE is required to perform basic math, including calculations using fractions, percents, and/or ratios; read technical information, compose a variety of documents, and/or facilitate group discussions; and solve practical problems.  Specific knowledge-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include basic principles and practices of speech and language therapy (e.g., Multi-Tiered Systems of Support - MTSS);

academic and social impact of a speech or language impairment; and assistive technology and interventions used in addressing speech and language impairment.

ABILITY is required to schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to work with others in a variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined and similar processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ability is also required to work with a diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with a variety of data; and utilize job-related equipment. Problem

solving is required to identify issues and create action plans. Problem solving with data requires independent interpretation of guidelines; and problem solving with equipment is limited to moderate. Specific ability-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include adapting to changing work priorities; communicating with diverse groups; utilizing specialized equipment in communication disorders; maintaining confidentiality; meeting deadlines and schedules; working as part of a team; working with detailed information/data;

maintaining effective working relationships; and translating therapy data into meaningful educational activities.

Responsibility

Responsibilities include working under direct supervision using standardized routines; providing information and/or advising others; operating within a defined budget. Utilization of some resources from other work units may be required to perform the job`s functions. There is some opportunity to affect the organization’s services.

Work Environment

The usual and customary methods of performing the job`s functions require the following physical demands: some lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling, and some fine finger dexterity. Generally, the job requires 70% sitting, 10% walking, and 20% standing.  This job is performed in a generally clean and healthy environment.

Experience: Job related experience is required.

Education: High school diploma or equivalent.

Equivalency: Successful completion of 48 college hours or ability to pass a state approved assessment within 90 days of employment is required.

Required Testing                                            Certificates and Licenses

Continuing Educ. / Training                            Clearances

                                                                       Criminal Background Clearance

FLSA Status                                            Salary Grade

Non-Exempt                                        Commensurate with qualifications and experience

Notice of Nondiscrimination

Geary County USD #475 does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and/or activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. For questions or complaints based on race, color, national origin, sex or age, please contact the USD 475 Executive Director of Personnel Services, 123 N. Eisenhower, Junction City, KS 66441. Telephone: 785.717.4000. For questions or complaints based on disability, please contact the USD 475 Executive Director of Special Education, 123 N. Eisenhower, Junction City, KS 66441. Telephone: 785.717.4000.

Geary County USD 475

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