Special Education Related Services
Speech and Language Therapy
What is Speech-Language Therapy?
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.
Who Receives Speech-Language Therapy?
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.
What types of Services are offered?
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.