The ability to communicate through speech and language is a uniquely human
phenomenon. It is essential to academic achievement. Children with
communication disorders can experience difficulty with learning and social
and emotional growth. Children are eligible for speech-language services
when their speech or language behavior is noticeably different from that of
children of their age or grade level as determined through standardized
testing and professional judgement. Speech-language pathologists are
specialists in evaluating and treating communication disorders.
Wappingers Central School District offers Non-Mandated speech services for
children in grades kindergarten through second grade and Mandated speech
services for children who are classified under special education in any grade.
Speech-language Pathologists of the Wappingers Central School District:
*Identify children with communication problems through referrals, screenings,
and evaluations.
*Assess communication ability and diagnose speech-language disorders.
*Provide direct intervention services to children in small groups or on an
individual basis, depending on need.
*Consult with parents and teachers in developing appropriate activities and
techniques to improve their child's oral communication skills.
*Counsel family members and other professionals about the nature of the
communication disorder and how they can facilitate speech and language
development.
*Reassess student progress periodically.
*Make recommendations for educational programs.
*Make referrals for other services (special education, occupational therapy,
physical therapy, etc.)
*Work with administrators to review the needs of the speech-language program,
assist in planning, and provide in-service education to other professionals.
*Work cooperatively with other professionals such as teachers, learning
consultants, nurses, physicians, audiologists, occupational and physical
therapists, psychologists, and social workers to provide comprehensive
diagnosis and treatment plans.
*** If you have concerns about your child's speech and/or language
development contact your school's speech-language pathologist.
