The Vital Role of Speech-Language Pathologists in Education

The role of the Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in education has undergone significant evolution, driven by medical and technological advancements. Children with congenital, surgical, or medically complex conditions are increasingly integrated into mainstream school settings, expanding the traditional responsibilities of SLPs and multidisciplinary teams. Understanding the impact of associated voice disorders on educational performance is crucial, especially considering that eligibility decisions for students in school-based settings must align with federal legislation and regulations governing services for students with disabilities.

What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Do in a School Setting?

In a school setting, an SLP is responsible for assessment and treatment of speech and language disorders, as they relate to accessing the general education curriculum. SLPs work on a multidisciplinary team which may include a Psychologist, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Special Education Teacher, General Education Teacher, Reading Specialist, and Hearing Teacher. SLPs have the unique opportunity to have a ‘seat at the table’ and serve as the Communication Specialist, improving communication skills and advocating for children. SLPs play a crucial role on the team, aiding in prevention, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of speech and language disorders, including articulation/phonology, fluency, voice, expressive/receptive language, and pragmatic (social) language.

Prevention

Prevention involves early interventions under programs known as Response to Intervention (RTI) or Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). These terms might sound complex, but they simply refer to the structured steps schools take to help students before they fall behind. For instance, in RTI or MTSS, all students receive some level of support (Tier 1), but those who struggle might get more focused help in small groups (Tier 2), or even one-on-one support if needed (Tier 3).

Assessing & Diagnosing

When a teacher or parent outreaches with a referral, you work with your team to develop the best plan for the student. SLPs diagnose speech and language disorders and determine if they have an educational impact. Each state has different guidelines to follow so it’s essential you’re intimately familiar with applicable special education law(s).

Treatment

If a student qualifies for a speech and language impairment, the team moves forward with an Individual Education Plan (IEP). This is a ‘live’ document renewed annually, or as needed, and includes the student’s evaluation information, present levels of performance, goals, and much more.

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Responsibilities of a School-Based SLP

SLPs manage a caseload of students with speech and language impairments and handle meetings, IEP paperwork, evaluations, services, documentation and billing, and collaborating with general education teachers, along with other professionals. SLPs also serve as related service providers for students with other learning impairments such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, developmental delay, and hearing impairments. They have a unique and important job to do in the school setting. It is rewarding, fast-paced, and impactful.

Becoming a School-Based SLP

To be an SLP, you’re required to have a Masters Degree in Speech-Language Pathology. Upon graduation, you enter a clinical fellowship (CF) and upon completion, you apply for your Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA. Some states will also require you to take a teacher certification test to work in the school setting. One unique benefit of the school setting is the opportunity for SLPs to hone in their skills with a particular population, such as Autism, deaf or hard of hearing students, or phonological impairments. This varies from school to school but opportunities are commonly available, if you so desire. Additionally, SLPs may be able to move into an administrative role to have a larger impact on education policy. You really can set your own trajectory, based on your goals and aspirations.

Compensation for School-Based SLPs

As an SLP, not only are you truly making a difference for your students, but you can also make a healthy salary. SLP compensation varies greatly state-to-state. ASHA reports the median salary for school SLPs is $69,000 per year. Every school district makes their salary schedule available online, which is great for transparency and making the best decision for you and your family. It’s important to research districts and schools to find the right fit for you from a salary and culture perspective. Additionally, some Districts offer stipends and allow you to advance in the pay scale if you complete professional development or earn college credits. It’s an added bonus that helps increase your base salary, while also increasing your knowledge in the field.

Thriving as a School-Based SLP

The school setting isn’t for every SLP and every SLP isn’t right for the school setting. One of the biggest pros to working in a school is the schedule. Having holidays, breaks, and summers off allows you to spend time with your children and make memories as a family.

Utilizing SLP Tools & Resources

Having systems and tools in place that streamline your workload has been an absolute lifesaver. For example, systems like SLP Now and SLP ToolKit have taken hours off paperwork load, allowed to collect digital data, bill Medicaid faster, and plan therapy sessions with ease.

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Setting Boundaries between Work & Life

Being an SLP in the school setting can be a phenomenal job with a wonderful work life balance. It’s essential that you have the freedom to spend time with your family when the kids are not in school. It’s also important to set boundaries as a school SLP. Leave work at work and be a big advocate of ‘being where you are.’

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