Speech-language therapy in the public schools is a support service for children with communication delays or disorders which negatively impact social, emotional, academic or vocational functioning.

Speech-language therapy is provided to students with documented needs in the areas of language, articulation, voice, and fluency. There are separate eligibility criteria for each of these communication disorders. Students with other primary disabilities (including developmental delays, learning disabilities, physical impairments, mental impairments,, and autism) may also have communication problems which co-occur with and are part of their primary disability.

Screenings, evaluation, treatment and consultation services are available for students between the ages of birth and 21 years of age with documented disabilities. Direct speech-language therapy sessions may be provided individually or in groups. Consultation services involve collaboration with classroom teachers, parents, and other service providers in meeting the needs of children not requiring direct intervention.