Augmentative Communication Specialist
- Employer
- Alexandria City Public Schools
- Location
- Alexandria, Virginia
- Closing date
- Jan 23, 2023
View more
- Industry
- Education
- Function
- School and Teaching
- Hours
- Full Time
- Career Level
- Experienced (Non-Manager)
Job Details
The Augmentative Communication Specialist evaluates students with significant communication impairments, in order to recommend, customize, implement and modify a broad range of technology and non-technology-based augmentative communication systems and to educate IEP teams on current trends and practices in the field of alternative/augmentative communication.
This job reports to the Executive Director of Special Education and Director of Related Services and Special Programs.
Qualifications
Education: Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology.
Certificates & Licenses: Valid Virginia Department of Education License in Speech-Language Pathology or eligibility to obtain one.
Experience: Advanced training and experience in Augmentative Communication, including recommendations, customization, and implementation of low to high-tech tools and strategies, including speech-generating devices, is required. Successful experience with children in a school setting, including those with moderate to severe disabilities, is desired.
Key Competencies: Knowledge of alternative/augmentative communication principles and practices including speech and language development; cultural and linguistic differences; current research-based instructional methodologies; technology and strategies associated with students having communication delays and disabilities; various aspects of aided and unaided AAC systems; features of various AAC tools; potential funding sources related to AAC; roles of communication partners; and evidence-based practices.
Essential Functions
- Assists in the identification of AAC needs.
- Evaluates the functional and educational needs of a student who is under consideration of AAC.
- Recommends, provides, adapts, and modifies materials, strategies, and equipment to support communication skills in the educational setting.
- Sets up device trials and evaluates responses to determine the appropriateness of technology for students and the environment.
- Provides direct service and consultation to assigned speech management caseload to include AAC students in special education and general education classes.
- Engineers classroom environments and provides staff training to engage students and enhance learning.
- Develops and implements intervention strategies using direct, monitoring, consultation, and/or other models of service delivery, to facilitate the integration of AAC into classroom and family communication settings.
- Provides recommendations, and assists in the selection, modification, and implementation of low, mid, and high technology solutions and devices.
- Provides consultation, specialized information, technical assistance, and training to staff and family members in the use of AAC.
- Facilitates the IEP decision-making process with regard to AAC.
- Assists in adapting curriculum, as necessary, for students using AAC.
- Collects, records and maintains data related to services, child performance, and progress.
- Creates implementation plans and monitors the use of AAC tools, including devices, by classroom teachers, therapists, and paraprofessionals.
- May perform other additional duties or tasks as designated by supervisor.
Clearance
- Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance
- Tuberculosis Skin Test
Public Health Compliance
- Proof of COVID vaccination. Exemptions for religious/medical will be reviewed.
- Must follow safety and health protocols.
WP
Primary Location:
Central Office
Salary Range:
Teachers and Other Licensed Staff Salary Scale (http://www.acps.k12.va.us/hr/compensation/)
Shift Type:
Full-Time
Company
Alexandria City Public Schools is one of the most diverse school systems in the country and we celebrate that diversity. Our students come from more than 80 different countries, speak more than 60 languages, and represent a rainbow of ethnic and cultural groups. They are economically diverse, but all are rich in that the residents of Alexandria are dedicated to ensuring that each and every one of them achieves success.
The children of Alexandria have benefited significantly from the strong support of City Council and the Alexandria community over the years. Tremendous gains have been made in student achievement and ACPS continues to be in the forefront of technology integration.
T.C. Williams High School is on the cutting edge, both inside and out. The award-winning building features numerous environmentally sound features, such as a 450,000-gallon underground cistern that collects and stores rainwater for building use, and a rooftop garden that provides stormwater management. The redesigned educational program at T.C. consists of smaller learning communities designed to increase academic achievement and the level of student engagement. Students feel more connected to caring adults, and teachers have more opportunity to know and support their students.
The City of Alexandria was recently named one of the Top 100 Communities for Young People by America's Promise, partly because of the quality of our schools and programs. A recent City survey indicates that the number of people who made the decision to live in Alexandria based on the quality of the schools has increased since 2004. We have many reasons to celebrate. ACPS is truly an urban success!
- Location
-
2000 N Beauregard St
Alexandria
VA
22314
US
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