MissionOur mission is to cultivate within each member of a diverse student body an intense commitment to self and community, the courage and insight to set high standards for academic and personal success, and the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to achieve those standards.About the SchoolThe Christa McAuliffe Charter School is a diverse Expeditionary Learning community for grades 6-8. Our hands-on curriculum inspires high achievement through active learning, character growth, and teamwork.We are a community of engaged, motivated learners students and adults alike. At McAuliffe, students take ownership of their learning, guided by creative, passionate adults who adeptly navigate the ever-present balancing act of challenge and support. A spirit of adventure pervades the school, and the energy is seemingly boundless.
McAuliffe is a rare middle school where it really is ok to be yourself. The community values independence and individuality while practicing collaboration, inclusivity, and acceptance. For everyone who experiences it students, faculty, staff, and families McAuliffe truly is a transformative learning experience. What is Expeditionary Learning?The Expeditionary Learning model challenges students to think critically and to take active roles in their classrooms and communities, resulting in higher achievement and greater engagement in school.
EL provides schools with professional development, coaching, and online tools to improve curriculum design, instruction, school culture, leadership, and assessment practices. Position OverviewThe primary function of the Speech Therapist (or Speech Language Pathologist) is to provide direct services to a caseload of students who have communication goals in their Individualized Education Programs (IEP). The Speech Therapist supports students to meet their goals through a push-in/pull-out model. The Speech Therapist also supports teachers and instructional leaders in learning and applying instructional strategies to develop all scholars communication skills.
The Speech Therapist reports directly to the Director of Special Education and regularly collaborates with Adjustment and Guidance Counselors, School Psychologist, and the Dean of Culture. The Speech Therapist is expected to keep logs of service delivery, assess progress regularly, and report on each students progress during IEP Team Meetings, through trimester progress reports, and via ongoing communication with case managers and the students family. The Speech Therapist will conduct initial and three-year re-evaluations as well as collaborate in IEP development with the Team.ResponsibilitiesCollaborate with the Team Chair and the Director of Student Services to establish and implement an annual service delivery plan and professional scheduleMaintain organized and thorough service delivery and progress notes for students on caseloadFor each student assigned to a Speech Therapist caseload, participate in Team meetings to develop, transfer, or review an Individual Education Plan; Collaborate with the Team to determine modifications, accommodations, and assessment approaches necessary to provide the student with a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.Conduct speech and language evaluations, including classroom observations, to inform initial evaluation or three-year re-evaluation, and as needed in other unique circumstancesParticipate in 3-year evaluation meetings, annual review process, and incoming students & high school transitions for students on caseloadProvide feedback to families and case managers about student progress performance; respond in a timely manner to inquiries from families.Support general and special education teachers to create a learning environment that is nurturing for all students and which allows for maximum feasible inclusion opportunities; engage faculty in professional learning via consult, grade-level Team Plus meeting, or whole faculty professional development, with need determined by Speech Therapist, Director of Student Services, and Director of Teaching & Learning.As needed, participate in grade-level meetings with teachers to address students of concernParticipate in professional development activities as determined relevant by the Director of Student Services.Professional duties may include assisting with an advisory group (Crew), lunch and recess coverage, supervising bus arrivals/departures, or other duties assigned by the Director of Student Services.Qualifications If you do not meet some of these, please be prepared to comment on how you will achieve these.Speech Therapy or Speech and Language Pathology Licensure (e.g., Massachusetts SLP and DESE licensure)Bachelors Degree or higher. Masters degree in Speech-Language Pathology and ASHS Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC preferred)Demonstrated passion for and experience working with middle school students Belief in and commitment to our Expeditionary Learning mission and whole child educational philosophyDemonstrated commitment to personal and professional growth: reflective, focused on ongoing learning and improvement, evidence of perseverance through challenging situationsSubstantial experience working on collaborative teamsStrong knowledge of federal and state special education laws and regulationsSkilled at speaking and writing clearly, as well as listening deeplyEnjoys working in a high-energy and creative environment!PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods.
Must be able to move about the classroom and school building to assist students. Must be able to lift/move instructional materials up to 25 lbs occasionally. Ability to communicate effectively with students, staff, and parents in person and digitally.COMPENSATION & BENEFITSSalary Range: In the spirit of pay transparency, the base salary range for this position is $41,952 (step 0, Bachelor's) $84,016 (step 20, Master's). If you are hired at Christa McAuliffe, your final base salary compensation will be determined based on factors such as skills, education, and/or applicable experience.
Please keep in mind that the range mentioned is the full base salary range for the role. Hiring at the maximum of the range would not be typical in order to allow for future and continued salary growth. Please see our salary scale, available upon request, that clearly outlines where an applicant will fall within the salary range based on years of applicable experience. Benefits: Health, dental, vision, 403b employee contributed, MTRS, life insurance.
Benefit details available upon requestEQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERThe Christa McAuliffe Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.