Resources for School-Based SLPs

School-based SLPs often face unique issues related to service delivery in educational settings. One frequently asked question of the Speech-Language Initiative is to provide guidance related to eligibility criteria for services for Speech and Language Impairment in PA: 

Pennsylvania law does not offer clearly stated eligibility criteria for speech-language services in the schools. While IDEA provides some guidance, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania ensures that each local education agency can interpret the law based on the needs of its community in relation to unique educational programming and ensure that students with disabilities receive the support needed for achievement.  SLPs should discuss eligibility/exiting procedures and protocols with their supervisors and/or BSE advisors; however, eligibility is typically determined using a three-pronged approach: 

• the student meets the criteria associated with at least one of the 13 disability categories established by the law 

• documentation of the educational impact related to the disability 

• the necessity of specially designed instruction and/or related services because of this disability.