Speech-Language Pathologist

Position Summary

1st Class Collaborative Intervention Support Services Institute (1st Class CISS) is seeking a dedicated and relationship-focused Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) to join our early intervention team as an in-house contracted professional. This role is embedded within our program and is central to supporting children's communication development through meaningful interactions, play-based approaches, and close collaboration with educators and families.

The SLP will provide direct speech-language services to children within our program settings, working alongside the interdisciplinary team to integrate communication goals into everyday routines and classroom activities in ways that are natural, respectful, and developmentally appropriate.

The Speech-Language Pathologist reports to the CISS Principal / Director of Early Intervention.

Duties and Responsibilities

A. Direct Service & Intervention

• Provides individual (1:1) and small group speech-language therapy services to children within the program, in and out of the classroom environment as appropriate.
• Embeds communication goals into everyday play routines, classroom activities, and natural learning experiences rather than relying solely on structured table-top therapy.
• Actively engages on the floor and within children's play to build trust, connection, and meaningful opportunities for communication and interaction.
• Conducts formal and informal assessments to identify children's communication strengths, needs, and goals across speech, language, and social communication domains.
• Develops and implements individualized therapy plans in collaboration with the interdisciplinary team, educators, and families.
• Applies knowledge of Gestalt Language Processing and natural language development approaches to support diverse communication styles and language acquisition patterns.
• Incorporates self-regulation and co-regulation strategies to create safe, supportive environments where children are ready and able to engage in communication and learning.

B. Collaboration & Family Partnership

• Partners with educators, families, and multidisciplinary team members to ensure communication goals are supported consistently across all environments.
• Provides coaching, practical strategies, and resources to educators and families to reinforce communication approaches within daily routines and classroom activities.
• Participates actively in staff meetings, interdisciplinary planning sessions, and collaborative problem-solving discussions.
• Communicates regularly and professionally with families regarding their child's progress, goals, and strategies.

C. Documentation & Compliance

• Maintains accurate, timely, and professional documentation including assessment reports, therapy plans, progress notes, and session records in accordance with program and regulatory requirements.
• Ensures all services are delivered in compliance with applicable Alberta regulatory standards and the Alberta College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA) professional practice guidelines.
• Participates in program reviews, quality improvement initiatives, and professional development as required.

Qualifications

Education & Registration

• Degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited institution.
• Current registration in good standing with the Alberta College of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA). This is a mandatory requirement.
• Valid liability insurance as required for contracted practice.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check including a Vulnerable Sector Search (required before commencement of contract).
• Valid Standard First Aid and CPR Certificate (or ability to complete upon contract commencement).

Experience & Preferred Skills

• Experience working in early childhood, early intervention, or pediatric speech-language pathology settings is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of and experience with Gestalt Language Processing and natural language development frameworks.
• Training or experience in self-regulation and co-regulation strategies that support children's readiness for communication and learning.
• Demonstrated ability to apply a play-based therapy approach that embeds communication goals into meaningful, child-led routines and activities.
• Familiarity with early childhood classroom environments, transitions, and group dynamics.
• Experience delivering both 1:1 and small group intervention within inclusive or early intervention settings.
• Flexible planning skills with the ability to adapt in the moment based on children's interests, classroom routines, and individual needs.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team while also functioning independently when required.
• Openness to ongoing learning, training, and adapting approaches to meet evolving program and children's needs.
• Flexible scheduling and a team-focused mindset to support classroom routines, family needs, and evolving programming within a dynamic early intervention environment.

Contract Details

• This is an in-house contracted position. Hours and scheduling will be confirmed upon agreement and may vary based on program needs.
• The contractor is responsible for maintaining their own professional registration with ACSLPA, liability insurance, and compliance with professional practice standards throughout the duration of the contract.
• 1st Class reserves the right to review and adjust the scope of contracted services in alignment with program needs.