School Psychologist Elementary

Job Summary

The Chichester School District is seeking a dedicated and compassionate School Psychologist to join our team. This professional will play a key role in supporting the mental health, well-being, and academic success of students across the district. The ideal candidate will provide psychological assessments, counseling services, consultation to staff, and collaborate with families to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Assessment and Evaluation: Conduct psychological assessments to evaluate students' academic, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning. Provide diagnostic testing and interpretation of results to guide educational planning and interventions.
• Consultation and Collaboration: Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other staff to develop strategies for addressing students' mental health and academic needs. Collaborate with other professionals such as counselors, social workers, and special education staff.
• Individual and Group Counseling: Provide short-term individual and group counseling services for students dealing with mental health issues, behavioral challenges, or social-emotional difficulties. Promote positive coping strategies and resilience.
• Intervention and Support: Develop and implement interventions to support students with disabilities, as well as students who may be at risk for academic or behavioral challenges. Assist in the creation of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Crisis Intervention: Provide crisis intervention and support for students experiencing significant emotional distress or behavioral crises. Work with school administration to develop crisis response plans.
• Prevention and Education: Lead or assist in the delivery of prevention programs related to mental health, bullying, substance abuse, and other social-emotional topics.
• Data Analysis: Analyze student data, including academic performance, behavior, and emotional health, to identify trends and provide recommendations for improvement.
• Professional Development: Stay informed about current research, best practices, and legal requirements in school psychology. Participate in professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.

Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree
• Certification/Licensure: Valid Pennsylvania certification as a School Psychologist. Additional licensure or credentials in related fields (e.g., LPC, LCSW) are a plus.
• Experience: Prior experience in a school setting preferred, particularly in providing psychological evaluations and interventions for students with diverse needs.
• Skills: Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills. Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team. Proficiency in data collection, assessment tools, and psychological testing.

Key Competencies

• Understanding of developmental, emotional, and behavioral stages in children and adolescents.
• Knowledge of special education law and procedures, including IEP and 504 plan development.
• Experience with behavioral intervention strategies and mental health counseling.
• Ability to respond effectively in crisis situations and provide emotional support.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Compassionate and empathetic approach to working with students, parents, and staff.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift and carry materials up to 20 pounds as needed.
• Occasional travel between district schools required.

Compensation

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
• Benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.

Chichester School District is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every individual feels valued and respected.