Speech-Language Pathologist

ACCESSPOINT RI•Cranston, RI

47d•$65,000 - $70,000•Onsite

About The Position

At Cornerstone School, we believe that every individual deserves a voice and the opportunity to communicate, connect, and thrive. We are seeking a compassionate, innovative, and collaborative Speech-Language Pathologist to join our multidisciplinary team and empower students to reach their fullest communication potential. As a Speech-Language Pathologist, you will provide comprehensive speech, language, and communication services to students with complex learning needs, including Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and significant medical or sensory challenges. Through individualized assessment, evidence-based intervention, and collaborative care, you will help students strengthen their communication skills, increase independence, and enhance their participation at school, at home, and in the community. This role extends beyond traditional speech therapy. You will develop, implement, and monitor individualized treatment plans, recommend and support the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems and assistive technology, and collaborate closely with educators, therapists, and families to ensure communication strategies are consistently integrated throughout each student's day. Whether you're helping a student express their wants and needs for the first time, building social communication skills, or introducing innovative communication tools, your work will have a profound and lasting impact on each student's ability to learn, connect, and succeed. If you are passionate about unlocking communication, fostering independence, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of students with unique abilities, we invite you to join a team where every voice matters.

Requirements

MS degree in Speech and Language Pathology
Speech and Language Pathologist by the RI Department of Education
Minimum of two years working in a school environment from preschool age to 21
Ability to use good body mechanics in all physical activities associated with job responsibilities
Develop the skill with new augmented communication devices as they become available
Ability to communicate with teachers, assistants, parents, and other professionals regarding student programs and IEP goals and objectives
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, individual students and their families
Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
Ability to implement and follow procedures and policies established for the safe and efficient operation of the classroom and school
Ability to write reports in a clear and concise manner using language which parents can understand
Ability to provide a speech/language program that is consistent in implementation of procedures and strategies to benefit children who need consistency throughout their day
Demonstrate knowledge of educational philosophy of age-appropriate and/or developmentally appropriate education or willingness to learn
Develop knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices and positive guidance techniques to be used in the early childhood setting
Current CPR certification or willing to become current
A valid driver's license
Meet DCYF and Department of Education requirements to work in a school
Will transport students using agency or own vehicle to meet school needs

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children with speech and language disabilities or any equivalent combination of education and experience
Knowledge of the functioning of assistive devices, augmented communication equipment, and all communication systems used by students.
Certificate of Clinical Competence/CFY eligible
Develop knowledge of dysphagia preferred

Responsibilities

Assess specific levels of language functioning using formal/informal measurement tools, observations, record reviews, and teacher interviews.
Assess and make recommendations regarding feeding and swallowing (in conjunction with physical therapy, occupation therapy, and nutritionist), as needed.
Assist in determining an individual's specific needs regarding speech/language services and include the goals and objectives of services in the child's IEP, following Common Core guidelines as appropriate.
Provide speech/language services in the form of direct treatment and/or consultation to educational staff and parents, as appropriate.
Provide consulting services by training staff and parents, as needed.
Monitor those programs implemented by speech/language pathologist via teacher/therapist consultation, classroom observation, and data collection, as appropriate.
Formulate evaluations/reports to meet relevant regulatory requirements to include IEPs, six-month reviews, and 3-year speech/language evaluations.
Maintain therapy notes and speech/language records on all individuals, as needed.
Participate in multidisciplinary conferences and attend all pertinent meetings, as appropriate.
Assist in purchasing recommendations of equipment and supplies for the speech/language department, as needed.
All other duties as assigned.
Provide ongoing training, encouragement, and support to classroom staff to ensure carryover.
Develop meaningful family contact through notes, phone calls, school visits, or home visits to maintain consistency of programming in the home.
Develop an understanding of children's feeding issues and work closely with the feeding team to address feeding concerns as it pertains to the area of speech pathology.
Establish a flexible schedule to provide speech services within the classroom and develop a carryover program for staff to maintain this standard daily.
Develop functional speech and language strategies and activities for the classroom that focus on practical application for the educational setting.
Demonstrate and always model the expected professional behavior of a Speech and Language Pathologist.
Set a professional standard within the classroom, school, and community to which others can model.
Demonstrate the ability to work as a member of the educational team.
Practice universal precautions, proper lifting, and monitor feeding techniques on an ongoing basis.
Provide a harmonious, respectful, professional, and stimulating environment for children and staff.
Encourage students to participate in therapy engaging staff only as much as needed to complete tasks or activities.
Promote choice-making opportunities for children throughout the day, including therapy.
Remain current on the latest advances in speech and language therapy through conferences and professional readings.
Other duties as assigned.