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.