ACCOUNTABILITY OBJECTIVE:

Participates in identification and provides psychological assessments and habilitative programs for children who exhibit developmental learning and/or school adjustment difficulties in compliance with existing legislation and School Committee policy. This position is within the Therapeutic Learning Center (TLC) program at Hunnewell Elementary School.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

• The school psychologist is responsible for psychological services in the schools to which she/he is assigned.
• The position provides identification, evaluation, and placement of children with social, emotional and learning difficulties. Such children and their families are assisted in transitions between educational placements.
• Children who are referred for psychological assessment are evaluated by the school psychologist. Diagnostic work is provided in cooperation with other Evaluation Team members. Direct service is provided to children with social, emotional, and developmental learning challenges, and to their parents and teachers.
• Under the supervision of the Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, the incumbent is responsible for providing these services in a manner consistent with existing legislation and School Committee policy.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Screen children whose performance in school is of concern to teachers, administrators or parents, through observation, consultation, review of child's history and administration of screening instruments.
• Evaluates and re-evaluates the functioning of children who are referred under Ch. 766 by administration of diagnostic tests and other clinical procedures.
• Writes psychological reports, including diagnostic summaries of evaluations, and consults with parents and teachers so that diagnostic information can facilitate appropriate remediation and management of disabilities at school and at home.
• Intervenes in school adjustment issues of children through provision of short term individual child therapy, parent counseling, teacher and staff consultation, and leading childrens’ groups and parents' groups.
• Participates as leader or as a member of Evaluation Teams, including the writing of Individual Education Plans for children who will receive psychological services under Ch. 766.
• Acts as liaison and referral agent for children whose educational needs require special curriculum or teacher selection or placement in Ch. 766 approved day and residential schools.
• With permission from parents, works with private medical, mental health, and social services workers so that services to a child and family are mutually supportive and most effective.
• Works with children in classrooms and/or with teachers to facilitate inclusion of students with disabilities, including mutual understanding and appreciation of strengths and weaknesses.
• Selects or develops screening, diagnostic, and curriculum materials as needed.
• Provides teacher support and develops relationships with teachers that facilitate high morale in relation to their work with students who have social and emotional problems.
• Assumes responsibility for professional growth through participation in staff and program development procedures and attendance at courses and/or professional meetings.
• Participates in job-related activities and departmental meetings.