Position Purpose
The BCSC School Psychologists main responsibility is to conduct psychoeducational assessments and evaluations for students referred for special education services, determine eligibility in accordance with Indiana special education law (Article 7) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and complete comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation reports.
Additional duties include collaborating with school staff, parents, and multidisciplinary teams to ensure students receive appropriate support and services. We aspire to the NASP practice model.
Essential Performance Responsibilities
Collaboration and Communication
Work with general education teachers, special education teachers, related services staff, administrators, and families as part of the special education process.
Provide consultation to teachers and parents regarding the interpretation of evaluation results to assist with determining special eligibility and inform instructional planning.
Participate in meetings, e.g., referral eligibility IEP meetings, and help explain assessment findings.
Encourages parental involvement in students education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
Assessment & Evaluation
Facilitates initial evaluations of students suspected of meeting special education eligibility criteria and periodic re-evaluations for those already identified.
Administer standardized and supplemental tests of cognitive ability, academic achievement, social-emotional, behavioral functioning, and other domains as needed, e.g., adaptive behavior, memory.
Use classroom observations, student work samples, interviews with parents, teachers, and review of records to inform evaluation recommendations.
Interpret test results, write evaluation reports that are clear, timely, and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
Facilitates multidisciplinary case conferences to review evaluation data and determine special education eligibility under Indiana Article 7 and IDEA.
Documentation & Compliance
Ensure that evaluation reports, eligibility documentation, and other required paperwork are maintained accurate and submitted within legal timelines.
Ensure assessment practices are consistent with state law, district policies, ethical guidelines, and best practices.
Keep up to date with changes in special education law, regulations, and policy, Indiana Article 7, IDEA, state licensure requirements.
Follow ethical practices defined by Indiana code and the National Association of School Psychologists.
Intervention & Support as relevant
Assist in designing intervention plans, behavior intervention plans (BIPs) or functional behavior assessments (FBAs) when behavioral or emotional issues are part of eligibility concerns.
As time permits, facilitate evidence-based interventions.
Professional Development & Growth
Keep professional credentials and licensure up to date.
Engage in continuing education, professional development relevant to assessment practices, psychological tools, and special education legal mandates.
Participate in district-wide or cooperative training meetings about evaluations and special education eligibility practices.
Serve as a resource and consultant on mental health and child psychology and conduct in-service programs as requested.
Supervise school psychology students in training.
Additional Duties
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Director of Special Education.
Designee
Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all-inclusive of every task or responsibility.
Equipment
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy, and fax machines, and telephones.
Travel Requirements
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of child psychology principles, assessments methods, behavior modification, etc., and current developments in school psychology.
Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and the formulation of action plans.
Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
Ability to organize and coordinate work to meet legal deadlines.
Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
Ability to engage in self-evaluation concerning performance and professional growth.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
Physical and Mental Demands
Work Hazards
Works in standard office and school building environments.
Qualifications
Profile
Certification: Indiana State Certification as a School Psychologist.
Motor Vehicle Operators License or ability to provide own transportation.
Education:
Ed.S., Ph.D., or Psy.D. in School Psychology or equivalent.
Experience:
Successful prior experience appropriate for employment as a school psychologist.