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Speech-Language Services

Learn how our speech-language pathologists can help

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs), also known as speech therapists, are licensed health care providers who assess, diagnose, treat and help to prevent disorders related to speech, language, communication, voice, swallowing, and fluency.

In schools, speech-language pathologists will:

  • Screen students to find out if they need further speech and language testing

  • Evaluate speech and language skills

  • Determine if children need specialized instruction

  • Work with children who are at risk for communication and learning problem

The speech therapist will work as part of the educational team to determine if a child is eligible for services. If so, the therapist will work with a team to develop an individualized education program (IEP) for students who qualify for services under federal and state law to address student's needs.
SLPs can help with issues related to:

  • How speech sounds are produced in words, sentences, and conversation (articulation)

  • Instructional vocabulary, concepts, and grammar, including how well words are used and understood (language)

  • Social communication skills, such as how close to stand to someone when speaking, how to take turns, etc. (pragmatic language)

  • How we sound when we speak - too high, too low, hoarse, nasal sound, etc. (voice)

  • Stuttering - the flow of speech and difficulties with starting to speak or sound repetition, syllables, words, or phrases (fluency)

  • Thinking and memory, problem-solving, attention, organization, etc. (cognitive communication)

School Speech Pathologist

Ms. Kerry Corso has been with Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) since 2007. Prior to joining ACPS, she worked in early intervention and private practice. Ms. Corso earned her master's degree from the University of Rhode Island in speech-language pathology. The areas she finds particularly rewarding are the fields of Apraxia, autism, and expressive and receptive language. Ms. Corso likes using literature to support language and generalizing pragmatic language (ie. social skills) from the speech room to the classroom and beyond. Additionally, Ms. Corso enjoys travel, gardening and taking walks with her dog, Jack. Email: kerry.corso@acps.k12.va.us

ACPS Speech and Language Services

ACPS offers a broad range of special education services, including speech and language. The focus of school-based speech-language services is to improve the communication abilities of students who need support to access the general education curriculum. Visit the ACPS website to learn more about ACPS Speech and Language Services.