In the fall, the Speech and Language Pathologist will assess all new Kindergarten students who are referred by the Kindergarten teacher, in consultation with the Resource/Special Education teacher, Community Health Services, or other health professionals. Parents who wish to refer their children should do so through their Principal.

At the start of the school year, the Speech and Language Pathologist will begin programming for students on a priorized basis, using her case load from previous years. If a new Kindergarten student has a need for service with a high enough priority, he/she will be added to the Speech and Language Pathologist's case load, and a student with the lowest priority will be dropped, if necessary.

Language disabilities are to be the primary focus of programming for the Speech and Language Pathologist. However, severe speech disorders may also be included on the case load of the Speech and Language Pathologist.

Changes in the case load of the Speech and Language Pathologist are to be made only after consultation with the Principal.

Teachers are to make referrals to the Speech and Language Pathologist through the Principal. The Principal will ensure that parental consent forms, if required, are completed before giving the referral to the Speech and Language Pathologist.

The Speech and Language Pathologist will use a combination of direct and consultative models for providing service.

The Speech and Language Pathologist shall be responsible for supervising the work of the Speech Educational Assistant.

BOARD APPROVED:

, _____

NEW POLICY

REPLACES POLICY

LEGAL REFERENCE