Special Education Speech and Language Therapist

Speech and Language Therapist

Are you looking for a career that would make a difference in the lives of children and families in Berks County? The Berks County Intermediate Unit (BCIU) is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to make an impact on the 70,000+ students and their families in Berks County. If you have the heart to serve, we encourage you to explore career opportunities with the BCIU! Provide speech and language services including evaluations, development of Individualized Education Plans (IEP), direct therapy, and consultation to teachers, parents, or appropriate staff under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), PA Chapter 14, and Act 212. Clinical fellowship year (CFY) mentorship available.

Job Responsibilities:

• Accept referrals for children suspected of, or exhibiting communication disorders.
• Ensure referrals are entered into the screening/evaluation process as per program procedures.
• Conduct screening/evaluations individually, as part of a multidisciplinary team, and/or as part of a trans-disciplinary team.
• Identify through screening/evaluation children with communication disorders.
• Generate evaluation reports (ER) individually or as part of a team.
• Develop, review, and/or revise the Individual Education Program (IEP) of eligible children in coordination with parents, teachers, and other appropriate personnel.
• Provide an appropriate level of intervention (individual, group, classroom-based, community-based, etc.) for those children identified as eligible for services.
• Consult with parents, teachers, and other appropriate personnel regarding the management of communication disorders and the connection between language development and literacy.
• Assist in developing, organizing, and conducting training related to communication and literacy.
• Assist in developing, organizing, training, and implementing curriculum components related to communication and literacy.
• Participate in grant projects related to communication and literacy for children.
• Maintain case files in accordance with program policy and program compliance requirements.
• Maintain a working knowledge of and adhere to all requirements under state and federal mandates.
• Maintain communication with other agencies and school districts as needed.
• Participate in all staff meetings and trainings.
• Participate in continuing educational activities for professional growth and development.
• For Speech and Language Therapist assigned to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program, communicate with deaf students through the use of sign language, and evaluate the accuracy and complexity of language conveyed in deaf students' signed communication and respond appropriately.
• Perform other job-related duties as required or assigned by the Program Administrator.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Speech/Language Pathology required; Master's Degree preferred.
• Pennsylvania certification as required by the Department of Education.
• Credentials necessary for participation in the School-Based ACCESS Program preferred.
• ASHA's Certificate of Clinical Competency preferred.
• Post-graduate coursework with a focus on communication and reading/literacy desired.
• Experience working with and evaluating students with special needs/developmental delays and with developing and implementing educational programs is required.
• For Speech and Language Therapist assigned to the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Program, experience with deaf culture and students who are profoundly hearing impaired preferred.
• Valid Pennsylvania driver's license necessary.
• The holder of this position could be required as part of his or her duties to engage in activities that can be charged to a Medical Assistance (MA) or other state or federal healthcare program. Clearance as a provider by both the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the federal government is therefore an essential qualification for this position.

Schedule: Full-time, 10 months/year

Salary: Varies based on education and experience

Benefits Included: Health, vision, and dental insurance Long term disability Life insurance Eligible for PSERS, PA Public School Employees Retirement System Employee Assistance Program Employee Assistance Program to include three free counseling sessions