What Does a School-Based SLP Do?

When most people think of speech therapy, they often picture a young child practicing sounds or working on vocabulary words. But what exactly does a school-based Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) do? Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at the day-to-day responsibilities of these vital professionals and their role in supporting students’ success.

The Primary Role of a School-Based SLP

A school-based SLP focuses on helping students overcome communication challenges that impact their ability to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. This includes addressing difficulties with:

• Speech sound production (articulation and phonology)

• Language comprehension and expression

• Fluency (stuttering)

• Voice disorders

• Social communication (pragmatics)

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for students with significant communication needs

Collaborating with the Educational Team

SLPs in schools are team players. They work closely with teachers, special educators, counselors, and administrators to identify and support students who may have speech or language challenges. Their collaboration ensures that communication goals align with the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and the broader academic curriculum.

A Day in the Life of a School-Based SLP

Here are some common activities that fill their day:

1. Conducting Assessments

   • SLPs evaluate students to identify speech and language disorders. They use standardized tests, observations, and teacher/parent input to determine a student’s needs.

2. Developing IEPs

   • For students who qualify for services, the SLP writes individualized goals that target specific communication skills. These goals are tailored to help students thrive in the classroom.

3. Providing Therapy

   • Therapy sessions may be one-on-one or in small groups, depending on the student’s needs. Activities might include practicing sounds, improving vocabulary, learning how to take turns in conversations, etc.

4. Collaborating with Teachers

   • SLPs consult with teachers to suggest strategies that support communication in the classroom. For example, they might recommend visual aids or simplified instructions for a student who struggles with language comprehension.

5. Documenting Progress

   • Keeping track of each student’s progress is essential. SLPs write detailed notes to show how students are meeting their goals and use this information to adjust therapy plans.

6. Attending Meetings

   • SLPs participate in IEP meetings and other school team discussions to advocate for students and share updates with families and staff.

Challenges and Rewards

While the job can be demanding—managing large caseloads, scheduling sessions, and juggling paperwork—it’s also incredibly rewarding. Helping a student find their voice or succeed in a classroom activity they once struggled with is a fulfilling experience that makes the hard work worthwhile.

Why School-Based SLPs Are Essential

Communication is the foundation of learning. Without the ability to understand and express themselves effectively, students may struggle to achieve their full potential. School-based SLPs play a critical role in bridging this gap, ensuring that every child has the tools they need to succeed.

Whether they’re helping a first-grader say their “R” sound or teaching a middle schooler how to navigate social conversations, school-based SLPs make a lasting impact on their students’ lives. Their work is deeply felt by the students, families, and schools they serve.