MGRESA Alternative Preparation for Speech-Language Associate Program (SLA)
What is the Speech-Language Associate (SLA) Program?
The Alternative Preparation for Speech-Language Associate (SLA) Program is a job-embedded, post-baccalaureate alternative preparation program designed for individuals who seek Speech-Language Associate certification but did not complete a traditional educator preparation program in speech-language pathology.
The program recognizes candidates’ prior academic preparation while they work in a school setting as a Speech-Language Associate to meet the requirements for Georgia Speech-Language Associate certification, not a degree. Candidates complete structured coursework, applied learning, and supervised practice aligned to Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) requirements.
Upon entry into the program, eligible candidates are issued a Speech-Language Associate Provisional certificate, which may be converted to a renewable certificate upon successful completion of all program requirements.
Who are the most likely candidates for this program?
Likely candidates are individuals who:
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hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher in Speech-Language Pathology or Communication Sciences and Disorders from a GaPSC-accepted accredited institution;
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are employed by a local school district in the position of Speech-Language Associate;
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are supervised by a GaPSC-certified Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) during program participation;
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seek certification only, not an additional degree.
Candidates must be employed while completing the program, as the SLA Program is fully job-embedded and requires active practice in a school-based setting.
While some of these individuals may elect to go the traditional graduate school route to gain leadership certification and an advanced degree, some within your district already have that degree and just need certification. Others may desire to go into leadership roles but don’t have the time or money required to attend graduate school. Still there are individuals who simply like the idea of learning by doing and being coached on the job while completing skills and competencies that are most critical to their school and district.
Why should districts participate in the SLA Program?
Districts benefit from participation in the SLA Program by:
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supporting the development of qualified Speech-Language Associates to meet student service needs;
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ensuring candidates receive structured preparation, supervision, and support aligned with GaPSC rules;
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partnering with Middle Georgia RESA to maintain compliance with certification, supervision, and documentation requirements.
Districts, supervising SLPs, and Middle Georgia RESA collaborate through a Candidate Support Team (CST) to provide coordinated, on-the-job support throughout the program.
School and district leaders become partners in determining the skills and behaviors that are most critical to their growth needs. Each candidate has a rigorous Individual Growth Plan that includes specific job-embedded tasks. Candidates are provided coaching and feedback on performance by both district and MGRESA personnel.
How long is the program?
The SLA Program is a 15-week, job-embedded program. Candidates are expected to complete all coursework, assignments, and program requirements within the designated program timeframe.
Candidates who require additional time to complete program requirements may be supported through an extended plan developed by the Candidate Support Team, which may result in additional fees.
What is the cost?
The cost of the SLA Program is:
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$2,400 for candidates within the Middle Georgia RESA service area
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$2,900 for candidates outside the Middle Georgia RESA service area
Program fees include all training, instructional materials, and expenses incurred by Middle Georgia RESA GaPSC-certified Speech-Language Pathologists for required supervision and travel. Payment is typically made through payroll deduction, as outlined in the application materials.