CLASS TITLE:  SPEECH ASSISTANT

JOB CLASS CODE:  7293

REPORTS TO:  School Principal

EXEMPT STATUS:  Exempt

Approved:  November 16, 2020

BASIC FUNCTION:

Assists in the practice of speech-language pathology and provides certain specific components of a speech language program under the supervision and direction of an appropriately qualified speech-language pathologist.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES:

• Conduct speech-language and hearing screenings without interpretation following specified screening protocols developed by a speech-language pathologist and audiologist respectively.
• Follow documented treatment plans or protocols as prescribed by the supervisor.
• Document student progress toward meeting established objectives as stated in the treatment plan.
• Provide direct treatment assistance to identified students under the supervision of the supervisor.
• Assist with clerical and other related duties as directed by the supervisor.
• Report to the supervisor about the treatment plan based on a student’s performance.
• Schedule activities, prepare charts, records, graphs, or otherwise display data.  This shall not include report generation.
• Perform simple checks and maintenance of equipment.
• Participate with the supervisor in research projects, in-service training, and public relations programs.
• Assist in implementing collaborative activities with other professionals.
• Assist in administering tests for diagnostic evaluations and progress monitoring.
• Perform related duties as assigned by the supervising speech-language pathologist.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
• Maintains regular attendance.  It is an essential job function that all employees report to work.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Principles and techniques of speech-language therapy
• Methods and procedures for assessment and treatment of communication disorders (speech sound production and use, receptive and expressive language, fluency, voice, oral motor, etc.)
• State and Federal laws and regulations regarding special education records, due process and service provision
• Local school district policies and procedures
• State laws and regulations governing the practice of speech-language pathology.
• Kentucky Eligibility Guidelines for Communication Disabilities
• Principals of training & supervising staff
• Health and safety regulations.

ABILITY TO:

• Provide speech-language therapy to eligible students.
• Develop and evaluate the appropriateness of treatment plans (IEPs).
• Develop student rapport and establish a positive therapeutic atmosphere.
• Communicate and work effectively with the families of students with disabilities
• Maintain records and prepare reports.
• Compile and verify data and prepare reports.
• Prioritize and schedule work.
• Maintain current knowledge of program rules, regulations, requirements and restrictions.
• Maintain current knowledge of technological advances in the field.
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action
• Establish and maintain cooperative and effective working relationships with others.
• Plan and organize work.
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Learn and apply office policies, rules and practices.
• Understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Meet schedules and time lines/deadlines.
• Work cooperatively with others.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical requirements indicated below are examples of the physical aspects that this position classification must perform in carrying out essential job functions.

• Work is performed with standing, sitting and/or walking
• Requires the ability to communicate effectively using speech, vision and hearing
• Requires the use of hands for simple grasping and fine manipulations
• Requires bending, squatting, crawling, climbing, reaching
• Requires the ability to lift, carry, push, or pull light weights up to 20 pounds

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable a person with a disability to perform the essential functions of the job.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Any combination equivalent to:  Bachelor’s degree and three years professional experience in area of assignment.