School Year: 2026-2027

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT

 

Classified Salary Range

 

Benefits Available

 

 

Therapy Assistants - Certified Speech Language Pathology Assistant (S.L.P.A.)

Special Services Department

Full-Time: shift time is subject to building needs. 

 

 

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate Certified Speech Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) to join our school district's special education team. As an SLPA, you will work closely with licensed Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs) to provide essential therapeutic services to students with diverse needs. Your role will contribute to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment that helps students achieve their full potential.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  1. High school diploma or GED and a minimum of 72 college quarter credits from a nationally accredited institution/pass ETS test required.
  2. Graduated from a speech language pathology assistant program (accredited) or predecessor organizations; Fulfills Washington State requirements for licensure, certification or registration.
  3. Experience working with children, particularly in an educational or clinical setting, is preferred.
  4. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, teachers, and other professionals.
  5. Empathy, patience, and a genuine commitment to helping students with diverse needs achieve their potential.
  6. Knowledge of educational laws, regulations, and procedures related to special education and IEPs is advantageous.
  7. Ability to adapt therapy techniques to accommodate students' varying abilities and learning styles.
  8. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail when documenting progress and maintaining records.
  9. Accurate and efficient at completing tasks on time without close supervision.
  10. Must be able to work effectively with small groups or individual students under the supervision of certificated staff.
  11. Willingness to work at multiple school sites.
  12. Must have a record of excellent attendance.
  13. Bilingual preferred.

 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  1. Collaborate with SLPs to implement individualized treatment plans designed to address students' specific developmental, physical, sensory, and cognitive needs.
  2. Assist in the assessment of students' abilities and challenges to contribute to the development of comprehensive therapy plans.
  3. Provide direct therapeutic interventions under the guidance and supervision of licensed Speech Language Pathologists.
  4. Engage students in therapeutic activities that promote the improvement of language, communication and other daily skills.
  5. Create a safe and encouraging environment that fosters students' social and emotional growth while addressing communication needs.
  6. Monitor and document students' progress and outcomes, maintaining accurate and up-to-date records in compliance with legal and professional standards.
  7. Communicate regularly with teachers, parents, and other members of the multidisciplinary team to share insights, progress, and recommendations.
  8. Collaborate in the development and modification of instructional materials and adaptive equipment to facilitate students' participation in classroom activities.
  9. Participate or prep for Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings to provide input on students' therapy goals, progress, and recommended interventions.
  10. Stay current with emerging trends, techniques, and best practices in occupational therapy, special education, and related fields through professional development activities.
  11. Adhere to all relevant ethical, legal, and regulatory guidelines pertaining to occupational therapy services in an educational setting.
  12. Understand the educational and social impact of orthopedic disabilities preferred.
  13. Understand all aspects of Individual Education Programs for students.
  14. Assist Speech department with purchasing equipment and supplies.
  15. Complete professional development as directed.
  16. Accept responsibility for assignments and outcomes.
  17. Work cooperatively with other staff; maintain positive, respectful relationships and engagements.
  18. Maintain punctuality and regular attendance.
  19. Maintain district assigned email account; read and respond to messages regularly.
  20. Other duties as assigned.

 

The Moses Lake School District #161 does not discriminate in any programs or activities on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion, color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, disability, or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal and provides equal access to the Boys Scouts and other designated youth groups. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the school district’s Title IX, Civil Rights, Affirmative Action, and Equal Opportunity officer, Michelle Musso, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, (509) 766-2650, mmusso@mlsd161.org; OR Section 504/ADA Coordinator, Samantha Burgess, 1620 S Pioneer Way, Moses Lake, WA 98837, (509) 766- 2670, sburgess@mlsd161.org