In an effort to improve upon current methods of evaluating school-based speech-language pathologists (SLPs), the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has developed a new accountability measure, the Performance Assessment of Contributions and Effectiveness (PACE).

Recognizing that SLPs are likely to be included in value-added assessment (VAA) systems designed to measure individual teacher effectiveness, ASHA designed PACE to more accurately reflect the SLP’s unique role in a child’s academic success.

The PACE accountability measure comprises a portfolio review, self-reports, and on-site classroom observation. The PACE document includes background information on VAA, an extensive review of the research on VAA for teachers, a performance review process, and ways to advocate for the adoption of PACE at the state and local levels.

Advocacy tools include a step-by-step process for ASHA state associations and members to advocate for change, a sample PowerPoint presentation, and frequently asked questions. All of the PACE resources can be accessed at www.asha.org/Advocacy/state/Performance-Assessment-of-Contributions-and-Effectiveness/.

"We hope that school districts will adopt PACE to support an accurate determination of our members’ critical roles in improving student performance," says ASHA President Shelly Chabon, PhD, CCC-SLP. "PACE provides our state associations and members with a comprehensive approach to help them accomplish this."

 

SOURCE: American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)