School Psychological Services
PAEC school psychologists deliver a continuum of prevention and intervention services to students, families, and schools. As integral members of a school’s educational team, school psychologists contribute to a broad range of services, which include the following:
• Prevention
As members of school-based problem solving teams, school psychologists assist in identifying students at risk for academic and behavioral difficulties by reviewing and evaluating relevant data. Using systematic problem-solving models, they develop scientifically based interventions to address these challenges.
• Intervention
School psychologists implement direct academic and behavioral interventions with individual students and small groups. These services address the needs of both at-risk students within the general education setting as well as students identified as eligible for special education.
• Consultation
School psychologists develop strong collaborative relationships with parents, teachers and community services to create an understanding of child development and to design healthy and effective interventions for learning and behavior problems. School psychologists also consult with school administrators regarding district-wide initiatives, policy decisions, and curriculum development.
• Assessment
Using a wide variety of data and evaluation techniques, school psychologists conducts formal and informal assessments to determine a student’s abilities, learning needs, achievement levels, behavioral functioning, and social skills.
• Education and planning
School psychologists conduct staff development activities for school personnel. Topics include: data collection, analysis, and management, teaching and learning strategies, child development, academic and behavioral interventions, and peer relations.
• Advocacy
School psychologists facilitate referrals to community agencies and specialists when appropriate.