Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 3–5) - Multiple Openings District Wide

Portland Public Schools; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Portland Public Schools seeks licensed, ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologists to provide developmentally appropriate speech and language services for children ages 3–5 across district early childhood settings. The role emphasizes play-based, inclusive practices and strong family partnerships.

Multiple openings available for the 2026-2027 school year. Collaboration with a multidisciplinary team is required to support students through IEPs and transition planning.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Speech-Language Pathology.
• ASHA CCC-SLP preferred.
• Preference will be given to candidates with experience with young children in early childhood settings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive, developmentally appropriate assessments of speech, language, social communication, and early literacy for children ages 3–5.
• Provide direct, play-based intervention embedded within classroom routines and natural environments.
• Collaborate with early childhood educators and related service providers to integrate communication strategies throughout the day.
• Develop and implement IEPs aligned with state and federal regulations with goals reflecting functional communication in early learning contexts.
• Serve as case manager for students with speech/language disabilities, coordinating services.
• Support inclusive practices by helping teams implement strategies within the least restrictive environment.
• Coach and consult with staff on language facilitation strategies and relationship-based approaches.
• Partner with families to support carryover of communication strategies at home and school.
• Participate in transition planning for Part C to Part B, Pre-K to Kindergarten.

Skills

Collaboration

Family engagement

Assessment skills

Education

Master's Degree in Speech-Language Pathology

CCC-SLP preferred

Job description

Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 35) - Multiple Openings District Wide

Portland Public Schools Pre-K - Portland, Maine Open in Google Maps

Job Details

Job ID: 5722609

Application Deadline: Posted until filled

Re-Posted: Aug 27, 2026 2:00 AM (UTC)

Job Description

TITLE: Speech-Language Pathologist, Early Childhood (Ages 35) - Multiple Openings District Wide

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Portland Public Schools seeks licensed, ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP) to provide developmentally appropriate speech and language services for children ages 35 across district early childhood settings, including public pre-K and specialized early childhood programs.

SLPs will join a collaborative, multidisciplinary early childhood team of teachers, ed-techs, social workers, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. This role emphasizes play-based, inclusive practices that support communication development within natural routines and environments, and strong partnerships with families and educators.

** There are multiple openings available for the 2026-2027 school year. **

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conduct comprehensive, developmentally appropriate assessments of speech, language, social communication, and early literacy skills for children ages 35
• Provide direct, play-based intervention embedded within classroom routines and natural environments
• Collaborate closely with early childhood educators and related service providers to integrate communication strategies throughout the day
• Develop and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) aligned with state and federal regulations, with goals that reflect functional communication in early learning contexts
• Serve as case manager for students with speech/language disabilities, ensuring compliance and coordination of services
• Support inclusive practices by helping teams implement strategies within the least restrictive environment appropriate for young children
• Coach and consult with staff on developmentally appropriate practices, language facilitation strategies, and positive, relationship-based approaches
• Partner with families to support carryover of communication strategies across home and school environments
• Participate in transition planning for children entering or exiting early childhood programs (e.g., Part C to Part B, Pre-K to Kindergarten)

EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE:

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in Speech-Language Pathology
• Preference will be given to candidates with:
  • Experience working with young children (ages 35) in early childhood or preschool settings
  • Knowledge of child development, early language acquisition, and play-based intervention approaches
  • Experience with family-centered practices and interdisciplinary teaming

CREDENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Maine State Speech Pathologist License ( more info )
• Maine State CHRC authorization (cost is $70 - more info here )
• ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP) preferred

EMPLOYMENT DETAILS:

• Schedule: School Year, Full Time (1.0 FTE)
• Assignment: Permanent
• Contract: Part of PEA union ( see 2025-2028 CBA here )
• Salary: Based on education and experience, as outlined in CBA
• Overtime: Not eligible for overtime
• Benefits: Eligible for benefits as outlined here

ABOUT PORTLAND PUBLIC SCHOOLS:

Portland Public Schools is one of the most diverse district's north of Boston, MA, with more than 50 languages spoken by our students and their families. It is the largest district in the state of Maine, serving almost 7,000 students from Pre-K to 12th grade, spread across 20 building and partner sites.

Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.

Position Type: Full-time

Job Categories:

Classroom Teacher > Early Childhood

Special Education > Speech/Language Pathologist

Contact Information

• Barbara Stoddard , HR Director
• 353 Cumberland Ave
• Portland, Maine 04101
• Phone: [phone]
• Email: [e-mail]