If you’re an SLP searching for a school-based role right now and finding the process unusually slow or unclear—you’re not alone. Across the country, many school districts are facing delays in hiring, and the reason isn’t about a lack of need. It’s about uncertainty.
So What’s Really Going On?
School districts typically begin ramping up staffing in late spring and early summer. But this year, many teams have hit pause—not because they don’t want to hire, but because they’re unsure what funding will actually be available when school starts.
Here’s what SLPs are seeing and why:
1. Delays in Job Postings and Offers
Districts are waiting on final budget approvals, and in many cases, that means they haven’t posted all their open roles yet. Even if you’ve applied or interviewed, you may be hearing things like:
“We’re waiting on final numbers.”
“We hope to have more clarity soon.”
“We want to move forward, but can’t commit just yet.”
This can be frustrating, especially if you’re used to smoother timelines. But for many school systems, even a small funding delay impacts hiring across special education, related services, and support programs.
2. Budget Caution Means Fewer Commitments
Schools are trying to avoid overcommitting. Some are offering fewer full-time roles, leaning more on part-time or contract positions, or holding back offers altogether until their financial picture is clearer.
Even when positions are mandated (like SLPs for IEP services), the process of determining caseloads, service delivery models, and team coverage takes longer when funding is in flux.
3. More “What If” Planning Than Usual
Here’s what we’re noticing:
- More contingency-based conversations (“If I can’t find an in-person provider, I will consider teletherapy.”)
- A rise in mixed models (e.g., a blend of on-site, teletherapy, or split caseloads)
- Increased interest in flexible candidates who can pivot as the year unfolds
Districts are doing their best to build support teams, but the constant “wait and see” environment is making it hard to move quickly.
What You Can Do as an SLP Right Now
If you’re caught in the slowdown, here are a few things that might help:
1. Stay engaged: Follow up with districts or agencies you’ve spoken to. Let them know you’re still interested, even if timelines shift.
2. Be open to creative models. Hybrid roles, short-term contracts, or part-time assignments may lead to full-time opportunities later in the year.
3. Keep your paperwork ready. Make sure your licensure, background checks, and district onboarding forms are current so you can move quickly when things do open up.
4. Don’t take the delays personally. The need for SLPs hasn’t gone away—if anything, it’s growing. What you’re seeing is a system delay, not a reflection of your value.
Final Thoughts
This hiring season feels different because it is different. Schools are facing tighter timelines, more questions than answers, and increased pressure to do more with less. If things feel slow, that’s not a sign to stop looking—it’s a sign to stay steady, stay flexible, and stay connected.
At Next Level Speech Therapy, we’re seeing these patterns across the board and are here to help you navigate them. Whether you’re waiting for the right fit, considering a change, or just looking for someone to talk it through with—we’ve got your back.
You’re not behind. You’re right on time—just in a system that’s temporarily paused.
