Speech and Language Pk-12

Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 (AIU8) is one of 29 intermediate units providing services for member school districts, including student services, training, technical assistance, online learning, and customized programs. Serving approximately 47,000 students across Blair, Somerset, Bedford, and Cambria counties, AIU8 operates from five office locations and supports a diverse range of living environments from rural to urban areas.

About the role

This itinerant position assesses and determines the presence of speech and language delays or communication disorders in educational settings. The Speech and Language Pathologist plans, provides, and evaluates individualized education, intervention, and instruction for eligible learners based on speech and language impairments, adhering to CSPG 63 or 86, laws, Board Policy, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Responsibilities

• Conduct formal evaluations of students, ages 3-21, using varied assessments to determine eligibility as a student with a Speech and Language Impairment under IDEA and assess the impact on education.
• Develop and complete PA standardized evaluation reports (ER/RR) and individualized education plans (IEPs), adhering to timelines.
• Facilitate IEPs to deliver specially designed instruction and related services for speech, language, and communication disorders.
• Maintain accurate student records and prepare reports as required by law, district/IU8 policies, and administrative regulations.
• Provide training and education to family/caregivers and professionals on communication skills.
• Collaborate with other professionals to coordinate a team approach to student programs.
• Complete documentation and billing, including Medical Access billing for eligible students, within required timelines where certification and licensure requirements are met.
• Utilize Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint) and LEA-specific systems for data entry, reporting, and record keeping.
• Use a structured system for planning and instruction, and complete required training to maintain ASHA and PA certifications/licenses.
• Communicate information to supervisors, co-workers, parents, and professionals in writing, by phone, email, or in person.
• Provide consultative services to assigned districts and use computer-based programs for ordering materials, data collection, and educational programming.
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of office equipment and modify teaching materials to accommodate individual student needs.
• Develop individualized or group speech programming for students with special needs.
• Travel between office sites and student locations as an itinerant position.
• Train support personnel when needed and provide equitable, accurate, and frequent feedback to students.
• Use a variety of assessments to evaluate student progress and interpret data to modify instructional decisions.
• Maintain accurate and timely instructional and non-instructional records.
• Maintain professional competence and expand knowledge in the field.
• Abide by federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies, including the Pennsylvania Code of Professional Practice and Conduct for Educators.
• Demonstrate regular attendance and effective communication in verbal and written form.
• Use personal and reliable transportation to visit all work locations.
• Perform other duties as assigned in accordance with IU8 Board policy, administrative regulations, state, and federal laws.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Disorders.
• Pennsylvania Department of Education Teaching or Educational Specialist Certification in accordance with Certification Staffing Policy Guidelines.
• American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) Certificate of Clinical Competence or Clinical Fellow Candidate.
• Current and acceptable clearances: Act 34 (PA State Police), Act 151 (PA Child Abuse History), Act 114 (PDE Fingerprinting), PDE6004 (Arrest & Conviction), and Act 168 (PA Sexual Misconduct background).
• Certificate of medical examination and tuberculosis test upon hire, as required under Chapter 14 of the Public School Code.

Qualifications

• School-based and pediatric experience desired.
• Excellent communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Knowledge of typical and atypical speech and language development.
• Knowledge of instructional strategies for students with speech and language impairments.
• Knowledge of special education regulations and procedures.
• Knowledge of positive, proactive classroom management systems and behavior support techniques.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Proficient technology skills.

Work Environment and Physical Demands

The work environment includes school and classroom settings, with some office, agency, or community locations based on need. The role may require working with learners outside the school building in various locations.

• Ability to lift and/or assist in lifting pupils ages 3 to 21 and maneuver assistive appliances (e.g., wheelchairs).
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
• Ability to move about various work environments.
• Ability to position oneself to manage and retrieve job materials and supplies.
• Ability to push, pull, move, and lift up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to operate a computer and office equipment for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate information effectively in various formats.
• Ability to interpret, analyze, and problem-solve complex documents related to federal, state, and local mandates.
• Willingness to travel as necessary to fulfill job duties.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage with no monthly premiums.
• Dental Insurance.
• Vision Care Plan.
• Health Savings Account (HSAs).
• Tuition Reimbursement.
• 403(b) Plan.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).
• Pennsylvania Public Schools Employees' Retirement System (PSERS).