School Psychologist

Job Description

Job Summary

The school psychologist works with other school-employed mental health professionals to provide direct support and interventions to students (PK-12) of Metro Deaf School as defined by the Metro Deaf School District Policy Manual. The school psychologist implements data-based decision making, consult with teachers, families, and others to improve support strategies; work with school administrators to improve school-wide practices and policies; and collaborate with community providers to coordinate needed services. The school psychologist also functions as a member of the multidisciplinary team to determine the student’s eligibility for special education services, appropriate programming, and on-going progress.

Duties and Responsibilities

To maintain a current licensure as a School Psychologist, per Minnesota Department of Education requirements.

Provide individual and group intervention and services to children and/or parents that emphasize improved educational performance and social emotional skills.

Provide collaborative consultation and documentation of results including assisting education staff with suggestions and implementation of behavioral intervention strategies, and providing recommendations and modifications to assist staff in working with students in the classroom setting.

Consult with parents, teachers, and other appropriate staff regarding the child’s program and any adaptations/materials needed to facilitate improved performance in the classroom or at home.

Provide direct services through a variety of methods (e.g. classroom presentations, in-services to staff/parents, etc.) as needed.

Maintain appropriate data on students to document current levels of performance and other pertinent information. Re-evaluate, as appropriate, to determine extent of progress and effectiveness of interventions.

Establish and monitor the necessary caseloads, procedures, and resources to manage school psychologist services to students/staff and work cooperatively to accomplish the goals of the IEP.
Adhere to the ethical standards and codes of the profession and to the established rules, regulations, and laws governing special education programs. Participate in activities that promote professional development and use clinical/educational research to enhance therapy services.

Supports and implements District policies, regulations, procedures, and administrative directives; demonstrates loyalty to the District and other administrators. Supports and follows the policies and procedures of the school districts served.

Screen and evaluate referred children including selecting appropriate instruments, administering tests, observations, and writing reports which state the evaluation findings and provide for educational program recommendations.

Participate as a member of the multidisciplinary IEP team contributing evaluation findings and collaborating on the child’s educational plan.

Establishes and maintains professional relationships with school staff.

Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

III. Competencies/Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies to perform the essential functions of this position.

Knowledgeable with Due Process (IEP and Re-Evaluation reporting).

Submits records, reports and assignments promptly and efficiently.

Demonstrates ability to adjust to and use new approaches in the performance of his/her duties.

Seeks and takes advantage of opportunities for professional growth.

Effective communication with teachers in recommending appropriate approach.

Communication - demonstrates fluency in ASL and written English, with an understanding of Deaf culture and bilingualism.

Recordkeeping – maintain accurate student records and store them in a confidential
manner.

Clientele – the individual shows the knowledge and abilities to provide services to students with special needs.

Collaboration – the individual will provide collaborative services with teachers and
other essential staff.

Services provided – the individual will communicate with students to determine the
services necessary to improve their abilities.

IV. Job Outcome

Maintains a positive attitude and style in dealing with others in a manner that contributes to the overall public relations of Metro Deaf School.

Maintains a positive and professional educational environment at all times.

Educates students to reach their full potential academically, emotionally, physically and socially.

Provides a safe and effective learning environment.

Qualifications

BS/Master Degree in Psychology
Native-user or fluency in American Sign Language required
Knowledge of Bilingual Education preferred
Experience with or knowledge of behavioral needs, strategies, and knowledge in field
Experience working in schools and children in field preferred

Institution Description

Metro Deaf School is a public charter school serving Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing children Birth to 21 years old. Metro Deaf School promotes academic excellence and social wellbeing for Deaf, DeafBlind, and Hard of Hearing students using an ASL/English bilingual approach. The primary purpose is to empower our students to develop the skills and knowledge to succeed as global citizens.

Application Instructions/Comments

Please find the application on the website and send it to Tracy Bell, via email, fax or mail.