Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 3-5) - Multiple Openings District Wide

Job Description

TITLE: Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 35) - Multiple Openings District Wide

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Portland Public Schools seeks licensed, ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP) to provide developmentally appropriate speech and language services for children ages 35 across district early childhood settings, including public pre-K and specialized early childhood programs.

SLPs will join a collaborative, multidisciplinary early childhood team of teachers, ed-techs, social workers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. This role emphasizes play-based, inclusive practices that support communication development within natural routines and environments, and strong partnerships with families and educators.

** There are multiple openings available for the 2026-2027 school year. **

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct comprehensive, developmentally appropriate assessments of speech, language, social communication, and early literacy skills for children ages 35
• Provide direct, play-based intervention embedded within classroom routines and natural environments
• Collaborate closely with early childhood educators and related service providers to integrate communication strategies throughout the day
• Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) aligned with state and federal regulations, with goals that reflect functional communication in early learning contexts
• Serve as case manager for students with speech/language disabilities, ensuring compliance and coordination of services
• Support inclusive practices by helping teams implement strategies within the least restrictive environment appropriate for young children
• Coach and consult with staff on developmentally appropriate practices, language facilitation strategies, and positive, relationship-based approaches
• Partner with families to support carryover of communication strategies across home and school environments
• Participate in transition planning for children entering or exiting early childhood programs (e.g., Part C to Part B, Pre-K to Kindergarten)

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Speech-Language Pathology
• Preference will be given to candidates with:
  • Experience working with young children (ages 35) in early childhood or preschool settings
  • Knowledge of child development, early language acquisition, and play-based intervention approaches
  • Experience with family-centered practices and interdisciplinary teaming

CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Maine State Speech Pathologist License (more info)
• Maine State CHRC authorization (cost is $70 - more info here)
• ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:

• Schedule: School Year, Full Time (1.0 FTE)
• Assignment: Permanent
• Contract: Part of PEA union (see 2025-2028 CBA here)
• Salary: Based on education and experience, as outlined in CBA
• Overtime: Not eligible for overtime
• Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here

ABOUT PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

Portland Public Schools is one of the most diverse district's north of Boston, MA, with more than 50 languages spoken by our students and their families. It is the largest district in the state of Maine, serving almost 7,000 students from Pre-K to 12th grade, spread across 20 building and partner sites.

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Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.

Welcome to ATX Learning

Maine's largest school system has 10 elementary schools, three middle schools, and four high schools serving nearly 7,000 students in kindergarten through grade 12, as well as about 4,700 adult learners.

The district takes full advantage of its location in a vibrant city with a thriving arts life. Schools draw on the resources offered by museums, theaters, local businesses and the city's colleges and universities.

Portland has a highly trained teaching staff. Many teachers hold advanced degrees. All of the district's teachers continue their education by pursuing professional development activities on a regular basis.

The district provides technology to support instruction, including laptops for each student in grades seven through 12 and wireless access at all schools.

Volunteers, parent-teacher organizations and businesses donate generously of their time and money to the district - an estimated 100,000 hours per year.

Graduates of the Portland Public Schools attend the country's top colleges and universities. See www.portlandschools.org for colleges attended by recent graduates.

The Portland Public Schools gives parents an array of program choices. The district as one of the first in the country to offer project-based Expeditionary Learning from kindergarten through 12th grade.

High school students have access to one of the broadest selections of Advanced Placement courses in Maine. Qualified high school students may take up to two college courses with tuition paid by the state. A regional arts and technology high school provides hands-on courses in growth fields such as health care, robotics and "green" construction.

More than 60 languages are spoken by students attending the Portland Public Schools. Multilingual students represent about a quarter of the district's enrollment. The district's diversity prepares all students for their roles as world citizens.

Portland residents can pursue lifelong learning and professional success through the academic, jobs skills and enrichment courses offered by Portland Adult Education.

Most of Portland's middle and high school students participate actively in co-curricular activities such as athletics, drama, music and service clubs. Portland students regularly excel in academic and athletic competitions at the regional, state and even national level.

See a list of recent honors, awards and recognition for the Portland Public Schools at: www.portlandschools.org. Join Portland ME Public Schools on Facebook. A focus on service learning-connecting the schools to the wider community-results in students undertaking many projects that benefit greater Portland.