Hamilton County Department of Education's Speech-Language Services includes assessment and therapy for communication disabilities in the areas of articulation, language, voice, and fluency for students ages 3 through 21. Depending on communication needs as determined by a comprehensive assessment and subsequent IEP, a combination of services may be provided including direct services with students by the Speech-Language Pathologist/Teacher, consultation with general curriculum teachers and/or parents, and classroom-based instruction through inclusion services. Speech-Language Pathologists/Teachers work collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure that students with communication disabilities have access to the core curriculum.
If your child is 3-5 years of age and you suspect a speech and/or language delay, please contact HCDE's Preschool Assessment and Learning Center (P.A.L.S.) at 423.498.7200 to schedule an appointment for assessment.
Terrilyn Ladd, Ed.S, CCC-SLP
Director of Related Services
|
Jennifer Rodgers, CCC-SLP
SLP Lead Teacher
|
Beth O'Bryant
Secretary of Related Services |
For inquiries for school aged students
☎️423.498.7005 |
Documents
Speech Development Milestones.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Screening, Assessment, Evaluation, and Testing
What is a speech language screening, a speech language assessment and a speech language evaluation?
A speech and language screening is a quick look to determine whether or not further testing is indicated. It can take five to 10 minutes. A standardized instrument may be used but it may not be if the age or concerns are answered via observation. A diagnostic evaluation or assessment is a complete battery of standardized tests administered to qualify and quantify performance and skills for baseline data and to determine an effective treatment program.
Speech Language Staff Descriptions
1. What does a speech language pathologist do?
Works with students to help them correct communication disorders.
A speech language pathologist is a licensed and certified professional that corrects communication disorders. This can range from hearing disorders, articulation deficits, auditory/language processing difficulties, vocal disturbances, neurological dysfunction, fluency issues such as stuttering, and oral motor issues.
2. What is the difference between a speech language pathologist, a speech pathologist, a speech therapist, a speech clinician, and a speech teacher?
The names are all synonymous.
They are all synonymous terms and are all certified staff. The term speech teacher is usually used in a public school setting.