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Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) - Job Opportunity at The Stepping Stones Group

Centralia, US
Full-time
Mid-level
Posted: July 27, 2025
On-site
USD 55-60 per hour

Benefits

Comprehensive 401(k) retirement savings plan providing long-term financial security and employer-matched contributions
Full health insurance coverage ensuring medical protection and family wellness support
Lucrative referral program offering monetary rewards for successful candidate recommendations
Complete relocation assistance package including moving expenses and transition support for geographic flexibility

Key Responsibilities

Drive measurable improvements in student communication outcomes through evidence-based speech-language intervention strategies that directly impact academic performance and social development
Lead individualized education plan (IEP) development and implementation, serving as the primary clinical decision-maker for speech and language services across diverse student populations
Collaborate strategically with multidisciplinary educational teams to integrate therapeutic goals with curriculum standards, maximizing student engagement and learning potential
Conduct comprehensive diagnostic assessments and progress monitoring that inform data-driven treatment decisions and demonstrate quantifiable student growth
Mentor and guide educational staff in implementing communication strategies that create inclusive classroom environments and support universal learning design

Requirements

Education

A Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology

Experience

Experience working with children and adolescents in a school setting a plus

Required Skills

Working with children and adolescents School-based therapy delivery Communication intervention techniques

Certifications

Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) State license or eligibility for licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The educational sector is experiencing unprecedented demand for speech-language pathologists as schools nationwide grapple with increased identification of communication disorders and autism spectrum conditions. Federal mandates under IDEA continue to drive specialized service requirements, while post-pandemic learning gaps have intensified the need for therapeutic intervention across all grade levels. Technology integration in speech therapy is rapidly evolving, with teletherapy platforms and digital assessment tools becoming standard practice. SLPs are increasingly expected to blend traditional therapeutic techniques with innovative digital solutions, creating hybrid service delivery models that maximize student access and engagement. School-based SLP roles are expanding beyond traditional therapy to include consultation, professional development, and system-wide program design. This shift reflects the growing recognition of communication as fundamental to academic success and the need for preventive, population-based approaches to speech and language services.

Salary Evaluation

The offered hourly rate of $55-60 represents competitive compensation for school-based SLP positions in the Pacific Northwest region. This translates to approximately $110,000-$120,000 annually for full-time positions, which aligns with national averages for experienced school SLPs and reflects the current market premium for specialized educational roles in Washington state.

Role Significance

Typical school-based SLP roles involve direct collaboration with 15-25 educational staff members including general education teachers, special education coordinators, occupational therapists, and administrative personnel. The professional will likely manage a caseload of 40-60 students across multiple school sites, requiring sophisticated time management and prioritization skills.
This position represents a mid-level professional role requiring independent clinical decision-making and case management responsibilities. The SLP will serve as the primary therapeutic authority for assigned students while collaborating with educational teams to influence broader programmatic decisions and student outcomes.

Key Projects

Development and implementation of comprehensive communication assessment protocols that identify student needs and track progress toward IEP goals Design of school-wide professional development initiatives that build educator capacity to support students with communication challenges in inclusive settings Creation of evidence-based intervention programs targeting specific populations such as English language learners or students with autism spectrum disorders

Success Factors

Clinical expertise in pediatric communication disorders combined with deep understanding of educational systems and federal compliance requirements ensures effective service delivery within complex institutional frameworks Strong collaborative and consultation skills enable successful partnership with diverse educational stakeholders while maintaining therapeutic focus and professional boundaries Data-driven decision making capabilities support evidence-based practice standards while demonstrating measurable student outcomes required for program accountability and funding justification Flexibility and adaptability allow for effective service delivery across multiple school environments while maintaining consistent therapeutic quality and professional standards

Market Demand

Exceptionally high demand exists for qualified school-based speech-language pathologists, with chronic shortages persisting across most educational regions. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 25% growth in SLP employment through 2031, significantly outpacing average occupation growth, driven by aging populations, increased autism diagnoses, and expanded recognition of communication disorders.

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Clinical competency in pediatric speech-language assessment and intervention forms the foundation for all therapeutic activities and directly impacts student outcomes. Mastery of evidence-based practices ensures compliance with professional standards while maximizing treatment effectiveness in educational environments. Educational collaboration and consultation skills enable effective integration of therapeutic goals with academic objectives. Success requires understanding of curriculum standards, classroom dynamics, and educational team processes to create meaningful learning opportunities. Documentation and compliance expertise ensures adherence to federal regulations including IDEA requirements while maintaining accurate records for legal protection and program evaluation. This administrative competency directly impacts funding and institutional liability.

Beneficial Skills

Bilingual communication capabilities increasingly valuable as student populations diversify and English language learner identification rates continue rising in educational settings Technology proficiency with digital assessment tools and teletherapy platforms enhances service delivery options and expands professional versatility in evolving educational environments Leadership and mentoring abilities support career advancement opportunities while contributing to professional development of educational colleagues and clinical team members

Unique Aspects

The position offers unusual geographic flexibility through travel opportunities and relocation assistance, appealing to professionals seeking diverse experiences and career mobility in educational settings
Comprehensive professional development support including ASHA-approved continuing education and online resources demonstrates significant investment in practitioner growth and clinical excellence
The spread pay plan providing consistent year-round income addresses a common challenge in school-based positions where traditional contracts may not provide summer compensation

Career Growth

Career advancement typically occurs within 3-5 years for motivated professionals who demonstrate leadership capabilities and pursue additional certifications or administrative credentials

Potential Next Roles

Lead Speech-Language Pathologist or Clinical Supervisor positions involving oversight of multiple SLP staff and program coordination across district-wide initiatives Special Education Coordinator or Director roles leveraging clinical expertise to guide comprehensive student services and compliance management Private practice development or consultation opportunities providing specialized services to school districts and educational organizations

Company Overview

The Stepping Stones Group

The Stepping Stones Group operates as a specialized staffing and service provider focused exclusively on educational support services including speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and special education. The organization has established a national presence by partnering with school districts to address critical shortages in specialized therapeutic and educational roles.

As a dedicated educational services provider, The Stepping Stones Group occupies a significant niche in the growing market for contracted school-based therapeutic services. The company's focus on comprehensive support packages and professional development distinguishes it from traditional staffing agencies and positions it as a strategic partner for educational institutions.
The Centralia, Washington placement suggests the company's expanding presence in the Pacific Northwest region, where rural and suburban districts often struggle to recruit and retain specialized professionals. This geographic focus allows for concentrated service delivery and regional expertise development.
The organization emphasizes professional community and career development, creating supportive environments that address common challenges in school-based practice including professional isolation and limited advancement opportunities. The comprehensive benefits package and professional development focus indicate investment in long-term employee retention and satisfaction.
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