Role of SLP in school settings

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) play a critical role in the school setting, supporting students with speech and language impairments. 

SLPs work with students to improve their reading, writing, communication, and self-esteem. At PTS, we believe that students receive the best support when their schools have the resources necessary to meet their needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the vital role of SLP in school settings and how therapy in the school setting can benefit both therapists and students. 

Quick take on role of an SLP in schools.

• Identify and address students’ potential language or speech difficulties. 
• Provide personalized support for each student depending on their identified needs. 
• Work with students of varying ages and see a diverse range of speech and language difficulties. 
• An SLP at school makes it easier for students to get the support they need during normal school hours. 

Exploring the role of SLP in school settings.

SLPs in schools are involved in a variety of different roles to help students who struggle with speech-language-related challenges. By performing speech-language therapy sessions within the school setting, early intervention yields better student outcomes. SLP in schools is designed to minimize disruptions to the academic day, offering a variety of benefits for students.  

• Prevention, assessment, and intervention for students with speech or language-related difficulties 

• Evaluation of students’ communication and speech skills/identifying the need for intervention 

• Collaboration with teachers, administrators, and other staff to identify and meet student needs 

• Serving a wide range of disorders, including those that involve speech, articulation, language, and voice 

• Developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) based on students’ needs 

Benefits of SLP in schools.

Research shows that early intervention for students exhibiting speech or language difficulties can go a long way in improving overall outcomes. School SLPs can identify and address potential issues early to help set students up for success. Many students who suffer from speech difficulties begin to fall behind academically. 

With intervention from a school SLP, students benefit from:

• Improved language and vocabulary skills

• Improved self-esteem/confidence: As students learn new skills, they exhibit increased confidence, which can often translate into improved academic performance.

• Better reading and writing comprehension: School SLPs design activities that teach students strategies for improving their reading and writing skills.

• Reduced social isolation/risk of bullying: Students with language difficulties may feel socially isolated or embarrassed among their peers.

• Improved support from family at home: SLPs in school settings can provide families with support and resources to encourage growth outside of school hours.

Parents can benefit, too, as school SLP sessions take place. 

Why work as a school SLP? 

The role of SLP in school settings offers many benefits. School SLPs get to work on various cases, which means no two days at work are the same. The role is challenging yet rewarding. Many school SLPs like that the job adheres to the school schedule, which means flexible working hours and weekends off. School SLPs get the summer break off when school is out of session (another great perk of the job). 

Explore Pediatric Therapeutic Services (PTS) career opportunities. 

Interested in rewarding work in schools? Check out our career opportunities today to explore the opportunity to work as an SLP in a school setting.  

At PTS, we offer a culture of empowerment as the country’s leading provider of pediatric therapy and related services. Learn more today and experience how you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of students struggling with language or speech-related problems or delays. 

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