Background
In 2002, the Vermont Legislature passed the first ever legislation, which required ALL speech language pathologists and audiologists in the State of Vermont to obtain licensure regardless of employment setting. This requirement pertains to professionals working in schools, as well as those in private practice, health care and clinical settings, and on contract to these institutions. Since October 1, 2004, all Audiologists and SLP’s practicing in Vermont have been required to be licensed by the Vermont Department of Education (26 V.S.A. chapter 87 and State Board rule 5436). The Vermont DOE is the issuing agency.

Licensure Requirements
This license requires that the individual satisfy the basic or foundational requirements that align with ASHA’s CCC’s (Masters in SLP or Audiology from an accredited program, the supervised clinical practicum of 300 or more hours obtained in the master’s program, passing Praxis II, and the equivalent of the Clinical Fellowship Year or CFY).

SLPs Currently Working in Vermont Schools
The Vermont DOE also requires those who wish to work in the schools to add an additional endorsement as an educational SLP or Audiologist. The competencies and requirements for this endorsement would be additional or on top of the basic requirements for all SLP’s and Audiologists and would exemplify the additional knowledge and skills required to be effective in the school setting. For instance, a school-based SLP would have to demonstrate competencies in knowledge of IDEA laws and writing of IEPs. Writing of the competencies will be part of the development of regulations following the passage of licensure.

Renewal Requirements
SLPs employed by Vermont public schools will renew their licenses through their local standards board, as they currently do. All others will renew through the Department of Education’s Licensing Office.