School Psychology Resource Site

What We Do : How School Psychologists Help Students, Teachers & Parents

School psychologists work to find the best solution for each student and situation.  They use different strategies to address student needs and to improve school and district-wide support systems.  School psychologists work with students individually and in groups. They help train teachers and parents regarding effective teaching and learning strategies and develop positive interventions to manage behavior at home and in the classroom.  They work with students with disabilities or with special talents, with students who may be abusing drugs and other substances, or with those in crises.

In addition, most school psychologists provide the following services.

Consultation

·         Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to find effective solutions to learning and behavior problems.

Evaluation

·         Evaluate eligibility for special services.

·         Assess academic skills and aptitude for learning.

·         Determine social-emotional development and mental health status.

Intervention

·         Provide psychological counseling to help resolve interpersonal or family problems that interfere with school performance.

·         Provide training in social skills and anger management.

·         Help families and schools manage crises, such as death, illness, or community trauma.

Prevention

·         Design programs for children at risk of failing at school.

·         Promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of diversity within the school community.

·         Collaborate with school staff and community agencies to provide services directed at improving psychological and physical health.

·         Develop partnerships with parents and teachers to promote healthy school environments.

Research and Planning

·         Evaluate the effectiveness of academic and behavior management programs.

·         Use evidence-based research to develop and/or recommend effective interventions.

 

Lakeshore’s School Psychologists can be reached through the Special Education Dept. at 926-2231.

 This article was adapted with permission from material supplied by the Communique’, a publication of the National Association of School Psychologists.