In the evolving landscape of special education, the 3:1 service delivery model emerges as a game-changer for speech therapy. This innovative approach maximizes both therapeutic intensity and classroom integration, while offering practical solutions for SLPs’ demanding schedules.
How the Model Works
Traditional therapy often involves 30-minute weekly sessions, totaling 120 minutes per month. The 3:1 model strategically reduces this to 90 minutes while increasing therapeutic intensity through smaller groups. This 30-minute reduction per student creates valuable time for SLPs to manage their many responsibilities, including documentation, meetings, observations, and evaluations.
The model offers two flexible implementation paths:
- SLPs can dedicate three weeks to direct therapy, using the fourth week for non-therapy duties.
- SLP-As can provide weekly services in smaller groups, maintaining consistent contact while increasing individual attention.
Enhanced Therapeutic Impact
- Students receive high-intensity therapy in intimate group settings
- Each child gets more focused attention from the provider
- Higher participation rates boost progress toward communication goals
- Peer modeling creates natural learning opportunities
Classroom Integration & Support
- Students spend more time in their regular classroom
- Speech goals integrate seamlessly into daily activities
- Stronger skill carryover into academic settings
- Continuous progress without missing crucial instruction
School-Wide Benefits
- Resources are optimized through strategic scheduling
- Providers can manage larger caseloads without sacrificing quality
- Documentation and planning become more streamlined
- Non-therapy duties receive dedicated time
- The entire educational ecosystem is strengthened
This model represents more than just a scheduling strategy—it embodies a commitment to intentional, impactful practices. Schools implementing this approach report stronger skill generalization, improved classroom participation, and robust therapeutic progress, all while providing SLPs with much-needed time for their additional responsibilities.
Ready to Transform Your Speech Therapy Program?
At Second Mile School Therapy, we specialize in implementing innovative service delivery models that maximize student outcomes while supporting your staff. Our team of expert therapists is ready to help rejuvenate your therapy program with proven strategies that work.
Contact Second Mile School Therapy today to discover how our top-tier team can help implement the 3:1 model in your school. Together, we can create a more effective, efficient, and engaging therapy program that serves all stakeholders—students, educators, and administrators alike.
Click the button to start your journey toward more impactful speech therapy services.
Let Second Mile be your partner in transforming student outcomes, one innovative solution at a time.
