Speech Language Pathologist Assistant - Berkshire Meadows School - Housatonic, MA (Housatonic)

Position Summary :

Aveanna Healthcare is seeking a Certified Speech Language Pathologist Assistant in Housatonic, Massachusetts (Pittsfield Metro Area).

• Location : Berkshire Meadows School JRI - Housatonic, MA

• Service Settings : School-based services

• Schedule : 7:30am to 3:30pm

• Grades : K-12

• Caseload : Within agency guidelines, includes travel time

• HR/Clearance Requirements :

  • TB Test

  • PA State Police Clearance (Act 34)

  • FBI Fingerprint Clearance (Act 114)

  • Child Abuse Clearance (Act 151)

  • Mandated Reporter Training

School districts vary with respect to requiring SLPAs to implement speech and related , under the supervision of a Speech Language Pathologist, School Psychologist, or other Lead Clinician:

1. The SLPA collaborates with teachers, parents, and related service providers to help implement speech and language services tailored to each students needs.
2. Under the direction of the supervising SLP, the SLPA assists in preparing and administering screening tools and collecting informal data as part of the evaluation process.
3. To support IEP implementation, the SLPA provides direct speech and language therapy services as outlined in treatment plans developed by the SLP.
4. The SLPA is responsible for collecting accurate session data and assisting in the preparation of progress reports, with all documentation reviewed and approved by the SLP.
5. In collaboration with school psychologists, behavior analysts, and other professionals, the SLPA contributes to coordinated support efforts across student services.
6. The SLPA supports students' use of AAC systemsincluding both high- and low-tech toolsby following the protocols and strategies established by the SLP.
7. As part of assistive technology support, the SLPA may help gather information for the SETT process and assist during AAC device trials under the guidance of the SLP.
8. Within RTI and MTSS frameworks, the SLPA helps implement tiered interventions designed by the SLP and communicates student responses to inform decision-making.
9. The SLPA helps maintain and coordinate therapy schedules to ensure students receive services as outlined in their IEPs, adjusting for school-based logistics as needed.
10. When trained and under direct supervision, the SLPA may assist in feeding and swallowing support; experience in this area is preferred but not required.

Additional Job Functions

• Review/discuss caseload with Aveannas Clinical Director at least once a month.
• Assists and guide teachers in observing, describing, and referring suspected and identified speech and language impairments.
• Provide screenings to identify students who require speech and/or language interventions and/or referral for formal assessment.
• Provides information and support to parents and families when appropriate.
• Provide a written evaluation defining Speech Therapy needs, goals and expected outcomes.
• Serves as a resource consultant for clinical staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Associate's Degree from accredited college or university required.
• Current and unrestricted SLPA license to practice in the state of practice.
• Additional requirements vary by state and district (e.g., First Aid, CPR certification, mandated reporter training, child abuse clearances, criminal history background checks).
• Continuing Education as required by state and/or licensing/regulatory bodies.

Other Skills/Abilities

• Ability to adhere to confidentiality standards and professional boundaries at all times.
• Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution.
• Good organization and communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to speak, write, read and understand English.
• Must be able to travel.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Prolonged walking, standing, bending, kneeling, reaching, and twisting.
• Must be able to appropriately respond physically and mentally to emergency situations.
• Must be able to sufficiently reposition students and move equipment without assistance.

As an employer accepting Medicare and Medicaid funds, employees must comply with all health-related requirements in all relevant jurisdictions, including required vaccinations and testing, subject to exemptions for medical or religious reasons as appropriate.