As we start the month of May, we also begin National Speech-Language-Hearing Month. We have an exceptional team of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) at the Elizabeth Lee Black School who ensure a diverse group of students have access to communication that is right for them. This may include using augmented and alternative communication (AAC), which includes all forms of communication other than oral speech to express thoughts, needs, and ideas.
Our SLPs are highly skilled at implementing AAC such as eye gaze technology, switches, or communication devices equipped with buttons representing a wide range of vocabulary. The work that our SLPS do each day allows our students to experience increased language opportunities, benefit from better communication with staff and peers, and helps them feel engaged and included in so many activities both in and outside the classroom.
I’ve asked our four incredible SLPs about the impact of their work and the value of speech-language pathology.
From left, Stephanie Jordan, Carly White, Amy Moczulski, and Colleen Klenz
Stephanie Jordan
The most exciting part of working at ELBS is that no two students are the same, so I am always learning something new!
The field of speech-language pathology is constantly growing and changing so there are always opportunities to learn new skills and work with different populations.
I’m proud that I’ve been able to give many of my students a voice by finding a communication method that works best for them and helping them successfully use it to communicate with those around them.
This is my 7th school year working at ELBS. I have enjoyed gaining experience with a wide range of communication systems and watching how technology has evolved over the years to help my students communicate!
Carly White
At the Elizabeth Lee Black School, we have students of various ages and abilities so there is a large variety of communication skills we work on. I love being able to work with such a wide range of students who all have different skills, needs, and personalities. There is never a boring day at the Elizabeth Lee Black School!
Speech-Language Pathologists can work in many different settings (schools, clinics, hospitals, nursing homes, etc.). My advice is to get as much real-world experience as possible during your undergrad and graduate school programming. This experience will help you when you are nearing graduation to know which setting you are most interested in. Another great thing about being an SLP is that you are constantly learning and growing in this field so if you are someone who loves to continue to grow your education and knowledge, then being an SLP is a great fit!
It is amazing to see a student/client find their voice and to be able to know that you were a part of helping them achieve that. There is nothing better than hearing stories from parents, teachers, or other staff members about how one of their students used a new word/sign/way to communicate appropriately.
I received both my bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Edinboro University. While at Edinboro, I was able to do off-site placements in both Pittsburgh (Pathfinder School) and Columbus (OhioHealth Rehabilitation Hospital). My placement at Pathfinder School is what led me to finding my passion of working in a special education school and ultimately working at BNI. I started at ELBS in 2016 and have loved it ever since!
Amy Moczulski
The thing I find most exciting about working at the Elizabeth Lee Black School is the students. My days are rarely dull, and I love the challenge of working with such a diverse population of students with complex communication needs. Seeing my students make progress, no matter how great or small, and knowing that I played a small role in that is so rewarding.
I would let anyone pursuing the field of speech-language pathology know that it is one of the most fulfilling careers for so many reasons. SLPs have so many options when it comes to choosing which population to work with and in which setting. SLPs can work with individuals across the life span and in a variety of settings including hospitals, schools, skilled nursing facilities, private practice, in-home therapy, and now virtually. Regardless of which career path a speech-language pathologist chooses, the result is the same. You are providing therapy to individuals to improve their communication to reach their fullest potential.
I have been working in special education for twenty-five years, specifically as a speech-language pathologist for fifteen years. I have had the opportunity to collaborate with many amazing people across the years including parents, colleagues across many disciplines, undergraduate and graduate students just beginning their career as SLPs, etc. I would like to think that I have effectively shared my experience and knowledge through these connections that I have been so fortunate to develop.
I have celebrated multiple graduations starting with my bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Lock Haven University. I later returned to school to pursue my post-bachelorette degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences at the University of Washington and my master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Western Washington University. I completed an internship at the Barber National Institute in Spring of 2009, and I never left! This is my 15th school year at the Elizabeth Lee Black School.
Colleen Klenz
I find it most exciting that no two workdays or students are the same! Every student at the Elizabeth Lee Black School is so unique – from the way they communicate to their personalities. Figuring out how best I can serve my students while promoting increased communication throughout their school day makes my job very rewarding!
A career in speech-language pathology is so rewarding! Because our scope of practice is so broad, SLPs can work in multiple different settings (e.g., schools, hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, etc.) and with individuals of all ages ranging from infants to geriatrics. Many people aren’t aware that we not only work with individuals with speech & language needs, but can also treat those with swallowing, hearing, voice, and cognitive disorders.
Just being able to be a piece of each of my student’s success stories, big or small, has been such a rewarding experience. Whether they were simply able to request their favorite snack in the classroom or even have a conversation with their family at home – I’m glad I could be a small part of it!
I received both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Edinboro University. I’ve been an SLP at ELBS since October 2022 (1.5 years). Prior to joining the ELBS team, I worked as an SLP in a skilled nursing facility for 5 years.
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