School
Psychologists
Helping
Your Children Grow
Office
of Student Services
School
Psychologist:
The goal of all education is to help each student develop his or her fullest potential. Teachers, principals, school psychologists and other school personnel work together to provide the best school environment possible for your child. Although most parents know what teachers and principals do, you may not be familiar with the roles of the school psychologist.
What is a school psychologist?
A school psychologist is
certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to provide specialized
services to school children. Every
school psychologist must have at least a Master’s degree and 30 additional
graduate credits (including an extensive internship) in school psychology. To be permanently certified, she or he must
also show competence over three years of supervised work. Many school psychologists have also earned
doctorates in school psychology.
School psychologists receive
special training in child development, learning processes, emotional and
behavioral adjustment, and psychological and instructional testing. School administrators, principals and teachers
rely on school psychologists when planning educational decisions about school
children.
What
does a school psychologists do?
A school psychologist works in
various ways to enhance your child’s school experience. The psychologist may work with children from
pre-school through age 21 and may:
·
Work with an Instructional Support Team (
·
Evaluate the effectiveness of special techniques
and materials used by the teacher;
·
Identify children who might need special
educational attention;
·
Help develop an Individualized Educational Plan
(IEP) for children who receive special educational services;
·
Participate in student assistance programs to help
children who might have drug-related or emotional problems;
·
Counsel students and parents regarding learning
and behavior problems.
School psychologists consult with counselors, administrators and others about your child’s learning and adjustment. Most important, the school psychologist will consult with you, as the child’s parent, and his or her teachers to better understand your child’s needs.
How
would a school psychologist evaluate your child?
The school psychologist develops recommendations for your child’s education by talking with you, your child and your child’s teachers; observing your child in the classroom; administering standardized psychological tests; assessing the way your child is benefiting from the current school curriculum; and gathering reports (if any) from other professionals.
This information is shared with you and the other members of the evaluation team (such as teacher, school administrator and counselor). Otherwise, these records are confidential and will not be shared with anyone without your permission. Together, the team tailors an educational program that is appropriate for your child. A report of the team’s conclusions and recommendations is available to you.
How
much do school psychologists charge?
There is no charge to you for the services of the school psychologist. These services are provided to you in cooperation with your school district, your local intermediate unit and the Pennsylvania Department of Education.
If you have any questions or concerns, or would like any information, please contact:
Office of Student Services
(814)-776-4255
Karen A. Scull
Assistant to the
Superintendent
for Special Education Services
(814) 776-4255
The