Guest: Lesley Sylvan, EdD, CCC-SLP

Earn 0.1 ASHA CEU for this episode with Speech Therapy PD: https://www.speechtherapypd.com/courses/navigating-mtss

Join podcast host Carolyn Dolby and returning guest, Dr. Lesley Sylvan, in this episode of School of Speech by Speech Therapy PD. Dr. Sylvan, an associate professor and master's degree program director at Montclair State University, dives into the topic of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and its essential role in school-based speech-language pathology. Learn about her extensive clinical experience, her scholarly interests at the intersection of education and speech-language pathology, and gain valuable insights on how SLPs can make a significant impact in schools. Dr. Sylvan also discusses how MTSS is not just a special education framework but a comprehensive system designed for all students. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical advice on implementing MTSS, shares research studies, and interacts with engaged listeners. Don't miss this informative episode that bridges the gap between theory and real-world application in speech-language services.

Episode Timeline:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:32 Guest Introduction: Dr. Lesley Sylvan

01:08 Disclosures and Housekeeping

02:11 Starting the Conversation: MTSS Overview

05:51 Understanding MTSS Tiers

09:02 SLPs' Role in MTSS

11:49 Balancing MTSS and IEP Responsibilities

25:10 Case Study: Speech Improvement Class

32:14 Challenges and Advocacy in MTSS Implementation

36:26 Understanding Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

36:45 Inclusion and Least Restrictive Environment

37:08 MTSS vs. Special Education

37:22 Supporting Struggling Students

39:27 Teacher Professional Development and MTSS

40:51 SLPs' Role in MTSS

45:04 Implementing MTSS: Strategies and Success Stories

47:44 Universal Screening and Early Intervention

57:23 Creative Approaches to MTSS

01:01:56 Conclusion and Further Resources

About the Guest:

Dr. Lesley Sylvan is an associate professor in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders at Montclair State University. She is also the program director of the master's degree in speech-language pathology. Dr. Sylvan is a certified speech-language pathologist (SLP) with extensive clinical experience working with school-aged children in both public and private clinical settings. She completed a Master's degree in educational policy and management and a Doctorate in human development and education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Broadly, Dr. Sylvan's scholarly interests center on the intersection between the field of education and the field of speech-language pathology