Top 10 Questions CFs Ask (Answered!) – Your First Year in the Schools Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming

Hallie answers the biggest questions CFs have about the first year.

Hey hey, SLP fam! Whether you're stepping into your CF year or just landed your first gig in the schools, this episode of SLP Coffee Talk is your new best friend. Hallie’s got your back with the top 10 questions every new SLP secretly wants to ask—from “What should I even do on my first week?” to “Am I totally faking it?” Spoiler: You're not. Tune in for tips, laughs, and the kind of real talk you wish grad school gave you. No fluff, just Hallie being your go-to SLP cheerleader with practical answers, scheduling sanity, and confidence boosters. 💪☕

Bullet Points to Discuss:

-Flexibility is key

-Prioritize tough-to-schedule

-Use flexible themes

-Start with simple routines 

-Relationships matter

-Take initiative and ask questions

-Protect your time

Here’s what we learned:

• Every day looks different. Flexibility is key in a school-based SLP’s routine.
• Smart scheduling saves sanity. Prioritize tough-to-schedule students first.
• Mixed groups aren’t a nightmare. Use flexible themes to target multiple goals at once.
• You don’t need a giant therapy bag. Start with simple routines and icebreakers.
• Be present, approachable, and proactive with school staff.
• CF supervision varies. Be prepared to take initiative and ask questions.
• Batch work, take breaks, and say no when needed.
• You’re making a difference. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.

Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  

📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/

🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signup

Subscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets