School psychologists are prepared to intervene at the individual and system level, and develop, implement, and evaluate preventive programs.
School Psychology is a general practice and health service provider specialty of professional psychology that is concerned with the science and practice of psychology with children, youth, families; learners of all ages; and the schooling process. The basic education and training of school psychologists prepares them to provide a range of psychological diagnosis, assessment, intervention, preventi
on, health promotion, and program development and evaluation services with a special focus on the developmental processes of children and youth within the context of schools, families, and other systems. In these efforts, they conduct ecologically valid assessments and intervene to promote positive learning environments within which children and youth from diverse backgrounds to ensure that all have equal access to effective educational and psychological services that promote healthy development. A strong foundation in measurement theory and applications of advanced statistical methodology support efforts by school psychologists to design or evaluate standardized and non-standardized measures in emerging assessment areas for individuals from culturally or linguistically diverse backgrounds and to design and evaluate innovative classroom programs, comprehensive and integrated service systems, and educational and psychological interventions. School psychological services are provided in a broad array of settings (e.g., schools, workplace, school-based and school-linked health centers, as well as medical, social service, or correctional facilities). School psychologists recognize schools as a crucial context for development. They
Know effective instructional processes
Understand classroom and school environments
Understand the organization and operation of schools and agencies
Apply principles of learning to the development of competence both within and outside school
Consult with educators and other professionals regarding cognitive, affective, social, and behavioral performance
Assess developmental needs and develop educational environments that meet those diverse needs
Coordinate educational, psychological, and behavioral health services by working at the interface of these systems
Intervene to improve organizations and develop effective partnerships between parents and educators and other caretakers
An essential role of the school psychologist is synthesizing information on developmental mechanisms and contexts and translating it for adults who are responsible for promoting the healthy growth and development of children and youth in a wide range of educational contexts.
