School Psychologist (Grades K -8)
Position Purpose Under the general supervision of the Director of Special Services, to assist students, teachers and parents in enabling students to derive the fullest potential educational experience from school by promoting positive self-esteem and resilience, and providing suggested methods and plans for overcoming psychological or mental health problems.
Essential Performance Responsibilities
- Conduct psychological assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students to recommend courses of action or corrective procedures to maximize learning and overcome psychological issues.
- Conduct individual, group or facilitative therapy for students whose diagnosed problems would benefit from behavior modification or differentiated instruction.
- Assist with the identification and placement of all types of exceptional students.
- Coordinate with administrators and other teaching staff to ascertain individual student’s abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and familiarize stakeholders with psychological services.
- Attend PPT meetings as needed for students with special needs.
- Serve as a resource and consultant on mental health and child psychology, and conduct in-service programs as requested.
- Assist with the school district’s dropout prevention efforts.
- Serve as a ready resource to students to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and maturity.
- Continue to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and maintain professional relationships.
- Organize and maintain a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and provide student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
- Encourage parental involvement in students’ education and ensure effective communication with students and parents.
- Select and requisition appropriate books, aids and other supplies and equipment, and maintain inventory records.
Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.
Note
The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.
Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of child psychology principles, assessments, methods, behavior modification, etc., and current developments in child psychology.
- Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
- Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
- Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
- Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
- Ability to organize and coordinate work.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
- Ability to engage in self‑evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
- Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.
Note
Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Job Duties for this position.
Qualifications Profile
- Certification/License:
- NJ State Certification as a School Psychologist
- Motor Vehicle Operator's License or ability to provide own transportation.
Experience
Successful prior teaching experience for the appropriate grade level preferred.
FLSA Status
Exempt
#J-18808-Ljbffr