The following information summarizes the requirements currently necessary to begin work in the public school system as an:
Audiologist or Speech-Language Pathologist
This information has been collected by researching individual state department of education regulations and policy documents, state administrative code provisions and by contacting each state department of education. Please be advised that regulations and policy may change at any time, so always check with your state department of education for the most up-to-date information.
Audiologist
No additional requirements for audiologists to provide services in schools, other than state licensure.
Speech-Language Pathologist
Entrance License
Completion of a master's degree in speech-language pathology from an ASHA-accredited program or evidence of a valid CCC from ASHA.
Professional License
Individual must have verification of having had one year of full-time experience as a speech-language pathologist in a school setting while holding a valid entrance license.
Specialized Renewal Requirements for Licenses Issued Prior to July 1, 1994
After June 30, 2007, a person who makes application for renewal as an educational speech-language pathologist, but who does not hold a master's degree in SLP, must provide evidence that at least 24-quarter hours or 16-semester hours of post-baccalaureate college credit in SLP or related special education instruction and services have been earned.
Continuing Education Requirement
125 clock hours are required every five years
Emergency Certification
A Temporary Limited License may be granted at the request of the administrator or the employing school district provided written documentation that:
- No applicant holding a license in a subject or field for which a temporary limited license is requested can fulfill the requirements of the position.
- The position has been advertised.
- The school district will provide a mentor.
- The applicant holds a baccalaureate degree from a college or university accredited by the regional association for the accreditation of colleges and secondary schools.
- The applicant has a degree directly related to the professional preparation for which educational speech/language pathology is requested.
Support Personnel
No specific requirements for a SLPA. Paraprofessionals can be used for clerical support.