Who are Speech-Language Pathologists?
School Speech-Language Pathologists are members of the Professional Services Team of the Halton District School Board. All School Speech-Language Pathologists have a Master's degree and are registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario.
Speech-Language Pathologists have specialized training in all areas of communication including speech, language, and literacy. Training includes skills in assessment, intervention and consultation.
School Speech-Language Pathologists are members of the School Resource Team and provide direct support to the following classes/programs:
- Early Language Development Centres
- Primary Language Classes
- Communication Transition Programs
- Functional Communication Programs
How can School Speech-Language Pathologists help?
A School Speech-Language Pathologist can help if a student is having difficulty:
- developing communication skills
- producing the sounds of speech
- understanding oral language
- using spoken language
- acquiring early literacy skills
What services do School Speech-Language Pathologists offer?
School Speech-Language Pathologists offer a variety of services including:
- assessment (formal and informal)
- classroom observations
- strategies and techniques to facilitate language
- liaising with community professionals
- direct support to specific classes and programs
- consultation to the Multidisciplinary Support Teams
- consultation and programming support to Special Education Resource Teachers, classroom teachers and parents
“Language is the basis for thinking, communicating and learning. Students need language skills in order to comprehend ideas and information, to interact socially, to inquire into areas of interest and study, and to express themselves clearly and demonstrate their learning. Learning to communicate with clarity and precision, orally, in writing, and through a variety of media, will help students to thrive in the world beyond school."
(Ontario Ministry of Education, The Ontario Curriculum Grades 1-8: Language, 2006)
In summary
School Speech-Language Pathologists bring unique knowledge and skills to the educational system to support students' learning and success, specifically in the areas of speech, language, communication and literacy development.
For more information:
Student Services Department
New Street Education Centre
3250 New Street
Burlington, Ontario L7N 1M8
905-631-6120