| Location | Garland, TX |
Job Title: School Psychologist SPED Exemption Status/Test: Exempt Reports to: Coordinator of Special Education Date Revised: July 2024 Dept. /School: Special Education Pay Grade: 106 Primary Purpose: Perform professional psychological work in assessment, behavior management, and counseling for students with emotional disabilities, autism, traumatic brain injury, and other behavioral disorders. Assess the psychological and psycho-educational needs of students referred to special education. Qualifications: Education/Certification : Master's degree in psychology from an accredited college or university Valid Texas license as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology granted by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience providing psychology services in an educational setting preferred Special Knowledge/Skills: Knowledge of procedures for assessing achievement, intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning for educational purposes Knowledge of prevention and intervention strategies, including behavior management interventions Knowledge of psychosocial development Strong consultative skills for conferring with teachers, parents, and students Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills Major Responsibilities and Duties: Assessment 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 according to federal and state regulations 2. Score and interpret test data 3. Develop psychological evaluation reports and behavior management plans 4. Participate in the ARD committee to assist with appropriate placement and development of the IEP for students according to district procedures 5. Adhere strictly to federal and state evaluation timelines for both initial evaluations and reevaluations 6. Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment 7. Compile and maintain all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required, including case records, test results, statistical data, and test inventories
8. Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the area of psychological services and assessment Communication/Collaboration 9. Consult with district personnel on appropriate instructional strategies, techniques, and materials for students with emotional disturbance, autism spectrum disorders, and traumatic brain injury 10. Participate in monthly team meetings and other in-service related activities to explore ideas, view new material/equipment, and share and exchange information 11. Work collaboratively with general education and special education teachers to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned Problem-Solving and Decision-Making Skills 12. Exhibit initiative in finding and meeting needs and developing new ideas 13. Exhibit good judgment in interactions with all students 14. Identify problems and suggest solutions in a positive manner Consultation 15. Conduct group and individual counseling sessions for students with diagnosed emotional/behavioral disorders 16. Serve as consultant on mental health topics 17. Provide staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel with the identification and understanding of students with emotional, social, and behavioral disturbances 18. Meet with parents to discuss pertinent background information and test results 19. Consult with teachers and relevant staff concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data 20. Consult with psychologists, diagnosticians, medical doctors, and community agencies concerning the intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of students as needed 21. Serve as a consultant in Manifestation Determination ARDs for students who are identified with an emotional disturbance, autism, traumatic brain injury, or other health impairment due to ADD/ADHD Program Expertise 22. Remain abreast of trends and developments in the evaluation of students suspected of having an emotional disturbance, autism spectrum disorder, and traumatic brain injuries 23. Develop an itinerant schedule for providing assessment services 24. Assume responsibilities for and maintain confidentiality relative to student record/data Other Duties 25. Participate in team activities 26. Observe all district policies and procedures 27. Perform other duties as assigned. Supervisory Responsibilities: None.
Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors Tools/Equipment Used: Standard testing equipment; standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals Posture: Frequent sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), occasional heaving lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting non-ambulatory students Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases may require districtwide travel Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required. Reviewed by Date Received by Date