Bethany Schwang Chapman advocates for SLP support in Baltimore City Schools

The Education, Energy, and Environment (EEE) Committee of the Maryland General Assembly convened on March 5, 2025, to address critical issues affecting education and related services in the state. The session featured testimony from various stakeholders, including Bethany Schwinn Chapman, a speech-language pathologist representing the Maryland Speech Language Hearing Association.

Schwinn Chapman opened her remarks by highlighting the essential role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in schools, emphasizing that their work extends far beyond helping children articulate sounds. She illustrated the profound impact SLPs have on students' communication abilities, enabling them to express love and build friendships. However, she raised urgent concerns about a staffing crisis within Baltimore City Schools, which has left many students without necessary services due to high caseloads and turnover rates among SLPs.

She reported that last year, 25 schools in Baltimore City operated without an SLP for four to six months, depriving students of vital support outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Schwinn Chapman noted that SLPs are often required to perform multiple roles, including special education tasks and administrative duties, which contribute to burnout and attrition. She also mentioned her personal financial investment in student supplies, totaling over $33,000, due to insufficient funding from the district.

In her plea to the committee, Schwinn Chapman urged members to support Senate Bill Block 26, which aims to provide salary stipends for SLPs, thereby improving retention and attracting new professionals to the field. She concluded her testimony by emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable students who rely on these critical services.

The committee also received written unfavorable testimony but did not have any in-person witnesses to present opposing views. Following Schwinn Chapman’s testimony, Senator Hester expressed a shared commitment to addressing the challenges faced by SLPs and inquired about a letter from the Department of Health, indicating ongoing discussions about the issue.

The meeting concluded without further questions, marking a significant moment in the ongoing dialogue about educational support services in Maryland. The committee's next steps will likely involve further consideration of the proposed legislation and its potential impact on the staffing crisis in schools.