A Case Management Model for School-Age Children With Multiple Needs

Although the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) includes case management among the responsibilities for school-based speech-language pathologists, there is limited information in the speech-language pathology literature describing models of, or best practice for, case management in the schools. Recent amendments to the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (1997) focusing on enhancing students with disabilities involvement and progress in the general curriculum and participation in state- and district-wide assessment suggest that the speech-language pathologist serving as case manager should effectively coordinate appropriate accommodations and adaptations. The authors describe a case management model for speech-language pathologists working with school-age children who have multiple needs. The skills necessary for effective case management are outlined and functional outcomes are demonstrated with a child and family story.