- Smyrna School District
- Speech/Language
Special Services
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Speech/Language Overview
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Speech-Language Pathologists
Our speech-language pathologists have obtained Master's degrees from American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA) Accredited programs, and have obtained licenses to practice through the Delaware Licensure Board.
What We Do
Speech-language pathologists work with children throughout the district who have documented communication delays/disorders that may affect their academic success, social interaction, literacy skills, and overall learning. We collaborate with teachers and families, and also consult with a number of professionals within the schools in order to support students' communication skills in the classroom setting. We support students who have documented difficulties communicating in any of the following areas: articulation/phonology, receptive (what a student understands) language, expressive (what a student says) language, functional communication, voice problems diagnosed by a doctor, and fluency disorders.
How Are Speech-Language Services Delivered?
A student is referred by his or her classroom teacher to the speech-language pathologist to determine if the child is eligible for speech-language services. If a speech-language condition is found and has an adverse effect on the child's education, the student's needs will be addressed through an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) developed by the team.
The Importance of Teamwork
Students who are the most successful in terms of the communication benefit from parents/caregivers and teachers who help them to practice the skills they are learning. At times, this may include formal homework assignments designed to reinforce the skills taught in therapy sessions. It may include practicing learned skills in natural environments, such as the car to and from school, at extracurricular activities, and/or in the classroom.