Speech and Language Extern

Position Overview

This position provides comprehensive clinical experience working with students with diverse communication disorders in a special education setting. The extern will work under the direct supervision of ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologists and will gain experience aligned with the Knowledge and Skills Acquisition (KASA) competencies required for certification.

POSITION DETAILS

• Position Type: Clinical Externship (Unpaid/Academic Credit)
• Duration: One academic semester/term or as required by graduate program
• Schedule: 20-40 hours per week (flexible based on program requirements)
• Setting: The Children’s Guild Nonpublic special education school serving students with moderate to severe disabilities. Site will be determined by the supervising clinician (Transformation Academy, The School of Baltimore, The School of Prince George’s County)
• Supervision: Direct supervision by ASHA-certified SLP(s) in accordance with ASHA certification standards

KASA COMPETENCY ALIGNMENT

This Externship is designed to provide clinical experiences that support the development and demonstration of KASA competencies across the following standard areas:

• Standard IV-C: Foundations of Speech-Language Pathology Practice
• Standard IV-D: Identification and Prevention
• Standard IV-E: Evaluation
• Standard IV-F: Intervention
• Standard IV-G: General Knowledge and Skills Applicable to Professional Practice
• Standard IV-H: Neuroanatomical and Neurophysiological Bases of Communication and Swallowing

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Assessment and Evaluation (KASA IV-E)
• Conduct comprehensive speech-language evaluations using standardized and non-standardized assessment tools
• Screen students for communication disorders including articulation, language, voice, fluency, and social communication
• Analyze and interpret assessment results to determine eligibility for services
• Complete formal assessment reports with diagnostic impressions and recommendations
• Participate in multidisciplinary team evaluations and IEP meetings
• Treatment and Intervention (KASA IV-F)
• Provide individual and group therapy sessions for students with various communication disorders
• Develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans aligned with IEP goals and objectives
• Address articulation/phonological disorders, language disorders (receptive and expressive), pragmatic/social communication deficits, fluency disorders, voice disorders, and AAC implementation
• Adapt therapy materials and activities to meet diverse learning needs and developmental levels
• Collect and analyze data on student progress toward goals
• Collaborate with classroom teachers to support carryover of communication skills
• Documentation and Professional Practice (KASA IV-G)
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation including session notes, progress reports, and data collection
• Write measurable IEP goals and objectives in collaboration with supervisor
• Prepare progress reports for IEP review meetings
• Adhere to ASHA Code of Ethics and HIPAA regulations
• Participate in professional development activities and clinical supervision meetings
• Engage in evidence-based practice by reviewing current research literature
• Collaboration and Communication (KASA IV-C, IV-G)
• Collaborate with teachers, special education staff, parents, and other related service providers
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, including IEP meetings
• Communicate effectively with families regarding student progress and home practice activities
• Provide consultation to classroom staff on communication strategies and supports
• Demonstrate cultural and linguistic competence in service delivery

Clinical Supervision

• Direct supervision provided by ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist(s) with Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP)
• Minimum of 25% direct observation of clinical activities
• Weekly supervision meetings to review cases, discuss clinical decision-making, and receive feedback
• Ongoing evaluation using KASA competency-based assessment tools
• Completion of required documentation for university program requirements
• The actual amount of direct supervision must be commensurate with the student's knowledge, skills, and experience
• Supervision must be provided in real time
• Take place periodically throughout the practicum experience
• Be sufficient to ensure the welfare of the client receiving services
• The supervisor must hold current ASHA certification
• Have completed at least 9 months of full-time clinical experience post-certification
• Have completed at least 2 hours of professional development in clinical supervision

Qualifications

• Required: Currently enrolled in second year of an ASHA CAA-accredited graduate program in Speech-Language Pathology
• Good academic standing with graduate program
• Completion of first-year clinical practicum with positive evaluations
• Current state-required clearances (e.g., criminal background check, child abuse clearance, FBI clearance)
• Proof of health insurance
• TB test/screening documentation
• Strong written and verbal communication skills