The 3 Primary Ways to Work with Schools as a Related Service Provider

As a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), Occupational Therapist (OT), Physical Therapist (PT), or any other related service provider, working with schools offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on students' lives.

However, deciding the best way to collaborate with schools can be challenging and varies depending on a provider's professional journey and needs. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your personal and professional goals.

Let's break down the three primary avenues you can explore as a related service provider eager to work with school-based populations: becoming a school employee, working through a staffing agency, or contracting directly with schools. 

1. Working as a District Employee

Pros:

• Stability and Consistency: As a school employee, you can expect a consistent schedule and income, providing financial stability and peace of mind.
• Benefits: Being an employee often comes with a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and loan forgiveness. 
• Community: Being part of a school’s team allows you to build strong relationships with staff and students, fostering a sense of belonging.

Cons:

• Limited Autonomy: You will likely have little control over your caseload, which can lead to higher stress levels and burnout.
• Few Part-Time Options: Schools typically require full-time employees, making it difficult to find part-time work if you need more flexibility or want to build out a private practice on the side.
• Pay Scales: In many states, related service providers are placed on the teacher pay scale, which can limit earning potential.

2. Working for a Staffing Agency

Pros:

• Increased Autonomy: Compared to being an employee, working for a staffing agency gives you more control over your assignments and work environment.
• No Need to Navigate Sales: Staffing agencies handle the sales and placement processes, allowing you to focus on your clinical work.
• Provider-Run Companies: Some agencies are run by fellow providers, ensuring a deeper understanding of your professional needs and goals.

Cons:

• Less Autonomy than Ownership: While you have more freedom than an employee, you still don’t have complete control over your work life.
• Pay Cuts: Agencies take a portion of your pay, which can significantly reduce your earnings compared to direct contracting.
   
• Turnover and Instability (large agencies): Some staffing agencies, especially those agencies backed by investors, may have high turnover rates and instability, affecting your job security.

3. Directly Contracting with Schools

Pros:

• Set Your Own Rate: Direct contracting allows you to negotiate your rates, leading to higher income potential.
• Schedule Autonomy: You can create a work schedule that suits your lifestyle, whether that means taking on a full caseload or working part-time. You can also target niche-specific school contracts.
• Business Growth: As a contractor, you can hire additional providers to meet growing demand, creating opportunities for passive income.
• Business Ownership Perks: Enjoy the benefits of being your own boss, from tax deductions to the satisfaction of building your own brand.
• Private Practice Synergy: Direct contracting can complement a private practice, offering a diversified income stream and expanding your professional reach.

Cons:

• Expensive Benefits: As a contractor, you’re responsible for your own benefits, which can be costly.
• Self-Marketing and Sales: You need to “catch your own fish,” meaning you’ll have to market your services and secure contracts on your own.
• Fluctuating Pay: Income can vary based on the contracts you secure, which some may see as a drawback. However, this variability can also be viewed as a positive, as it allows for growth and increased earnings potential.
  
  

Conclusion

Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to working with schools as a related service provider. Whether you choose to be an employee, work with a staffing agency, or pursue direct contracting, each path offers unique advantages and challenges.

The most important thing is to choose the route that aligns with your career goals and personal values, knowing that all three options contribute positively to the community and support students’ success.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to directly contract with schools and want to explore tools and resources to help you succeed, visit The Therapist Support Network. I'm here to support you on your journey to professional independence!