Speech Language Assistant

Join Our Team!

Rapoport Academy strives to transform students trajectories by creating an inclusive and equitable school environment through relationship-driven practices rigorous academics and shared core values. As a part of our mission we are always looking for highly effective diverse teachers support staff and leaders to add to our team.

Why Work at RAPS

Looking for a supportive school environment We are a public charter school focused on innovative practices in education & a place for staff to GROW!

• Small Class Size:We cap classes at 17 and grade levels at 68 students. This allows teachers to really get to know their students and their families.
• Supportive Teaching Team:We offer instructional coaching content support mentoring highly qualified teaching assistants & professional development. RAPS is a place where teachers GROW.
• Increased Teacher Autonomy & Relaxed Employee Dress Code:We want you to enjoy teaching! And part of that is making sure you are comfortable. We have a relaxed employee dress code and we encourage teachers to bring their own flair and passions to their classes. Jeans and smart-casual dress are fine for staff to wear on school days! You can be yourself here.

Primary Purpose

The Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) is responsible for implementing the speech and language programs and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) developed by the supervising Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). The SLPA works under the direct supervision of a licensed SLP to deliver high-quality legally compliant therapy services to students with communication disorders ensuring fidelity to established protocols and IEP goals.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• Associates degree in Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) or a Bachelors degree in a related field with coursework required for licensure.
• Current valid license as a Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant issued by the states licensing board (e.g. Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association - TSHA).
• Proof of current supervision requirements as mandated by the state.
• Background in providing therapy in a school or pediatric setting is preferred.

Major Responsibilities and Duties

1. Direct Service Delivery

• Conduct speech and language screening programs under the direction of the supervising SLP.
• Provide direct therapy services and carry over activities to eligible students (individually in small groups or in classrooms) according to the IEP goals and treatment plans established by the supervising SLP.
• Implement documented intervention plans protocols and materials as prescribed by the SLP.
• Assist the SLP in providing speech-language therapy services during educational and functional activities.
• Assist with coordination with Special Education personnel and General Education personnel and provide assistance as needed for the implementation of communication strategies for students to participate in their least restrictive environment
• Document student performance and progress toward goals immediately following therapy sessions using district-approved software.
• Follow SLP Supervisor direction/suggestions for best practice procedures

2. Clinical and Program Support

• Assist the supervising SLP with clerical duties such as preparing materials scheduling and maintaining therapy equipment.
• Assist in the collection and graphing of data and prepare charts records and reports as requested by the SLP.
• Maintain and organize files and materials required for Medicaid billing or third-party reimbursement ensuring compliance with billing regulations.
• Participate in parent/teacher conferences or Admission Review and Dismissal (ARD)/IEP meetings only under the direction and supervision of the SLP.
• Maintain strict student and family confidentiality in accordance with FERPA regulations.
• Document student progress towards IEP goals with updating progress reports following the school reporting schedule
• Choose appropriate speech therapy tools and adapt to specific student needs

3. Professional Growth and Conduct

• Adhere to all local state and federal guidelines including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the rules governing SLPAs.
• Maintain the minimum number of supervision hours required by the state licensing board and actively participate in required supervisory meetings with the supervising SLP.
• Engage in continuous professional development to enhance knowledge of speech-language pathology practices and school-based procedures.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to maintain professional working relationships with students staff colleagues and community

Working Conditions

• Mental Demands: Requires frequent concentration prolonged hours of documentation the ability to maintain emotional control under stress and the capacity to deal with frequent interruptions.
• Physical Demands: Moderate lifting and carrying of therapy materials and equipment. Requires bending reaching standing and walking for extended periods in various school environments. Must be able to move quickly to ensure student safety.
• Environmental: Works primarily indoors in a school environment (therapy room classrooms hallways). May be exposed to noise activity and various student behaviors.