JOB TITLE:  School Psychologist (LSSP)

WAGE/HOUR STATUS:  Exempt

FUNDING SOURCE: Local

REPORTS TO:  Director of Special Education

PAY GRADE:    Admin 3    

DUTY DAYS:   198 Days

DEPARTMENT:   Special Education

DATE REVISED:  April 2024

 

This position is eligible for a Non-Chapter 21 Contract.

 

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Assist schools in the development of appropriate educational programs for students by conducting full individual evaluations, providing direct counseling and social skills instruction, consultative psychological services, and conducting and/or participating in ARD meetings for students. 

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

 

Minimum Education/Certification:  

• Master’s Degree with valid Texas license as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology granted by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists 

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of procedures for assessing academic, intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning for educational purposes
• Knowledge of prevention and intervention strategies, including behavior management interventions
• Knowledge of psychosocial development
• Strong consultation and conflict-resolution skills for conferencing with teachers, parents, and students
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to operate computer/peripherals using a variety of basic applications
• Ability to effectively use district programs with reasonable assistance

 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND JOB DUTIES:

 

1. Select and administer assessments and observations to evaluate the intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of referred students and to determine student eligibility for special education services as part of a multi-disciplinary team according to federal and state regulations in varied locations.
2. Complete functional behavior assessments and develop behavior management plans.
3. Score and interpret test data.
4. Generate psychological evaluation reports.
5. Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with appropriate placement and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures. 
6. Speak with parents to discuss pertinent background information and test results
7. Consult with psychologists, psychiatrists, medical doctors, and community agencies concerning intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of students as needed
8. Plan and provide services in the form of counseling and psychological services and/or social skills.
9. Develop and maintain effective individual and group relationships with students and parents.
10. Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of psychological services and assessment procedures and make recommendations for changes based on findings.
11. Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
12. Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required, including case records, test results, statistical data, and test inventories.
13. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the areas of psychological services, assessment, placement, and planning for special education services.
14. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
15. Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
16. Effectively communicate with colleagues, other school personnel, students and parents.
17. Take the initiative and participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment. 
18. Use information provided through formal and informal assessment data to develop a professional development plan to improve professional skills and knowledge.
19. Act in a professional ethical manner as outlined in the Standards of Conduct for the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists and the Standards of Conduct for the Teaching Profession.
20. Communicate and convey information with clarity regarding the district’s programs.
21. Act as an effective liaison among staff, parents, and community
22. Involve parents and the community in district and special education program improvement efforts as appropriate.

 

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:  

None

 

WORKING CONDITIONS: 

 

Mental Demands/Physical Demands / Environmental Factors:   Must maintain emotional control and exercise reasoning and problem-solving skills while under stress. Must demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written). Should be able to interpret procedures and analyze data for decision-making. Frequent in-district travel. Occasional prolonged and irregular hours. 

 

Safety:  Contribute to the prevention of accidents and injuries by observing safety rules and District policy, practicing the principles and skills taught in safety training, wearing personal protective equipment as required, reporting injuries and incidences immediately to the supervisor, and being proactive in the ongoing efforts to improve and maintain workplace safety.

The information in this job description is for compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Preceding statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required. Reasonable accommodations may enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.