SLP Lives Matter: A Powerful Launch to Our S.M.A.R.T. Start Workshop

On July 30–31, 2025, Speech By Design proudly hosted its inaugural S.M.A.R.T. Start SLP Workshop at McDonogh 35 Senior High School, part of the InspireNOLA Charter Schools network in New Orleans, LA.

This dynamic and transformative two-day event was thoughtfully designed to elevate both the clinical and real-world competencies of our Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs). It reaffirmed our unwavering commitment to the guiding principle that SLP Lives Matter—recognizing the vital role our professionals play in shaping communication, confidence, and connection within the communities we serve.

Empowering SLPs with Skills to Develop “Smart” Treatment Plans

One of the workshop’s key focuses was helping SLPs write Specific and Measurable objectives aligned with each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP)—goals crafted to improve communication in the areas of language, articulation, fluency, and voice.

Led by our Director of Training and Development, Emily Sossaman-Adams, the session provided attendees with hands-on strategies for developing SMART goals:

• S – Specific: What exact skill is being targeted? (e.g., producing /s/ in initial position)

• M – Measurable: Can the progress be clearly tracked?

• A – Achievable: Is the goal realistic based on the student’s current abilities?

• R – Relevant: Does it address the student's unique needs?

• T – Time-Bound: What’s the timeframe for success?

Emily’s clear, engaging style made the SMART framework accessible, actionable, and meaningful—ensuring that every SLP left equipped with the ability to develop client-centered goals that truly drive progress.

Real-World Readiness: S-2 Security Training with Instructor Terrence Taylor

In addition to clinical development, the workshop also prioritized personal safety and emergency readiness. On Day 1, Instructor Terrence Taylor, owner of S-2 Security Training, led a powerful HSI CPR/AED & First Aid Certification Course. His dynamic and engaging instruction gave attendees practical tools for responding to health emergencies confidently and effectively.

On Day 2, Instructor Taylor returned to lead an AVERT (Active Violence Emergency Response Training) session. His impactful presentation reminded everyone that you don’t have to be a victim. SLPs were trained on how to:

• Hide if necessary,

• Run if escape is safely possible,

• Fight and Defend when there are no other options.

Instructor Taylor’s sessions were more than just training—they were empowerment experiences, equipping our professionals with the mindset and skills to protect themselves and their students in critical situations.

Behind the Scenes: A Team Effort

This successful event wouldn’t have been possible without the outstanding leadership of our new Director of Operations, Kelsey Joseph, and Community Impact Coordinator, April Moran. Their attention to detail and thoughtful planning created an environment that was not only functional but warm, engaging, and conducive to growth.

We’re also excited for the future under our Camps and Programs Coordinator, Nia Ponson, who is already developing new initiatives to engage families and communities through our expanding slate of summer camps and enrichment programs.

A Full-Circle Moment: The Heart of Our Work

A deeply emotional and unexpected moment during the workshop reminded us exactly why SLP Lives Matter.

While on campus, a McDonogh 35 staff member approached Dr. Lori Vaughn Taylor to thank her personally for the life-changing speech therapy she had provided his daughter over 13 years ago through the Louisiana Early Steps program. He recalled how “Ms. Lori’s” compassionate and skilled intervention laid the foundation for his daughter’s development. Today, she’s thriving in high school—and proudly competing on the school’s debate team.

The very next day, he returned to the workshop—not in his role as a staff member, but as a proud and grateful parent. He stopped in just to check on the SLPs and share a powerful reminder:

“What you do matters. You are changing lives every single day.”

Moments like these are the heartbeat to our professional lives. They affirm not only the value of our profession, but also the lasting impact of every SLP’s work.

 Looking Ahead

The S.M.A.R.T. Start Workshop was just the beginning. We’re committed to continuing this momentum through ongoing training, professional development, and wellness initiatives that reflect our belief in both the value of the work and the people doing it.

SLPs are essential. Their voices matter. Their lives matter. And the impact they make lasts a lifetime.