Title:
PARA 7-Speech-Language Pathology Assistant
DBM Classification:
B24/Class 7
Department:
Special Education
Salary Range:
$26.36 - $32.52
Employee Group:
EM Spark
Prepared Date:
June 2026
Reports to:
Director of Student Services
FTE/FLSA Status:
1.00 FTE |10-Months | Non-Exempt
SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES
Under the direction and supervision of a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) provides speech-language services to students who meet Minnesota special education speech-language criteria. The SLPA implements therapy activities and IEP-aligned speech-language goals as directed by the supervising SLP, documents student progress, and supports service delivery across assigned buildings within St. Louis Park Public Schools. The SLPA does not conduct independent evaluations, interpret assessment data, or alter IEP plans without the supervising SLP's knowledge and approval.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide direct speech-language services to students in individual and small group settings under the direction and supervision of the licensed SLP, consistent with each student's IEP goals and objectives.
- Meet regularly with the supervising SLP to coordinate services, review student progress, and maintain accurate documentation.
- Develop lesson plans, prepare therapy materials, and create visuals to support speech-language services as directed by the supervising SLP.
- Document student service progress, complete progress report data, and draft present levels for SLP review.
- Provide indirect support to help students generalize communication skills into the general education classroom and other school settings.
- Conduct or assist with articulation screenings using protocols developed and approved by the supervising SLP, without interpretation; assist with scheduling student sessions.
- Implement documented therapy plans targeting articulation, language, fluency, voice, social communication, and pre-language skills as designed by the supervising SLP.
- Support the use of assistive and augmentative communication (AAC) devices and adaptive tools as directed by the supervising SLP.
- Communicate regularly with the supervising SLP regarding student progress, behavioral concerns, and any changes in student presentation.
- Collaborate with classroom teachers, special education staff, and families to support carry-over of communication skills across settings.
- Travel between district buildings during the duty day as needed to fulfill assigned service schedules.
- Maintain confidentiality of all student records and information in compliance with FERPA and district policy.
- Participate in required training, team meetings, and professional development as directed.
- Other duties as assigned.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Knowledge of normal speech, language, and hearing development and common communication disorders, including articulation, language, fluency, and voice.
- Understanding of IEP goal structure and the role of the SLPA in implementing, not designing, individualized plans.
- Ability to implement therapy objectives consistently and accurately, following documented protocols from the supervising SLP.
- Skill in documenting student performance data clearly and in a format useful to the supervising SLP.
- Familiarity with AAC devices and how to support their use in school settings.
- Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills for working with students, families, teachers, and colleagues.
- Ability to accept and incorporate feedback from the supervising SLP while maintaining a positive and professional working relationship.
- Strong organizational skills to manage caseload schedules and service logs across multiple buildings.
- Ability to travel between district buildings during the duty day as required by the service schedule.
- Commitment to working onsite in assigned buildings; this is not a remote position.
- Commitment to confidentiality, equity, and inclusive educational practices.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Frequent sitting at a table or on the floor during therapy sessions with students of varying ages and abilities.
- Regular movement between classrooms and buildings throughout the school day.
- Ability to see, hear, and speak clearly to monitor student responses and model correct speech production.
- Manual dexterity to manipulate therapy materials, operate a computer, and support the use of communication devices.
- Occasional bending, kneeling, or reaching to assist students with positioning or material use.
- Ability to lift and carry therapy materials and adaptive equipment (typically up to 25 lbs.).
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- School Setting: Primarily works in a school and office but may move throughout the school to respond to student needs in classrooms, cafeterias, playgrounds, or gymnasiums.
- Noise Level: Moderate to high noise levels typical of a school environment, with occasional interruptions from students, staff, and announcements.
- Pace of Work: Fast-paced environment with a frequent need to prioritize multiple tasks, especially during health emergencies or high-traffic times (e.g., lunch or recess).
- Collaboration: Works closely with school nurses, teachers, administrators, and parents to coordinate student care and communicate health concerns.
- Emotional Demands: May encounter emotionally charged situations involving sick or injured students, requiring empathy, patience, and strong interpersonal skills.
- Safety: Must follow all district and health regulations to maintain a safe and clean working environment, especially when handling medications and medical equipment.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- Associate's Degree from an accredited Speech-Language Pathology Assistant program, OR
- Bachelor's Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders or a closely related field, with completed coursework in assistant-level service delivery and a minimum of 100 hours of supervised fieldwork as an SLPA student.
- Prior experience providing speech-language support to students in a school-based or pediatric setting is preferred.
- Familiarity with IEPs, special education processes, and school-based service delivery models preferred.
- Valid Minnesota Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) license issued by the Minnesota Department of Health, per Minnesota Statutes section 148.5181, required at time of hire and maintained throughout employment.
- Minnesota SLPA licensure requires proof of qualifying education, completion of a criminal background check, and a minimum of 100 hours of supervised fieldwork. Applications are submitted to the Minnesota Department of Health.
- Must be at least 18 years of age per Minnesota licensure requirements.
BENEFIT INFORMATION
St. Louis Park Schools provides a comprehensive benefits package for employees working 20 or more hours per week. Key benefits include:
- Health and Dental Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for medical and dependent care expenses
- Life Insurance
- Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance
The cost of benefits varies based on the employee group and full-time equivalent (FTE) status. For detailed information, including specific benefits and associated costs, please refer to the applicable group or bargaining unit contract Employment Contracts.
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