School psychologists play an important role in schools by conducting assessments, providing consultation, implementing prevention and intervention programs, and advocating for students. They work with students, teachers, and families to address issues related to learning, behavior, mental health, and social/emotional development. Some of their key responsibilities include evaluating academic skills and learning difficulties, observing students, designing and implementing interventions, counseling students, and educating teachers and parents. The goal of school psychologists is to promote students' academic achievement, social/emotional well-being, and healthy development.

1. What Is a School Psychologist? A Guide for Undergraduate Students Presented by Mac I. Barnett School Psychologist © 2006 National Association of School Psychologists, 4340 East West Highway, Suite 402, Bethesda, MD 20814 – 301-657-0270

8. School psychologists evaluate the origin and degree of a student’s strengths and weaknesses and monitor progress toward reaching academic goals.

11. School psychologists and teachers can collaborate when presented with challenging students, classrooms, or situations.

13. Teachers know their students best. Teachers can help school psychologists with prevention efforts by identifying students at-risk and systemic concerns in the classroom, school, and community.

15. School psychologists can help teachers select, implement, and evaluate interventions that work for children with diverse needs.

17. School psychologists teach students, teachers, parents, and other professionals problem-solving strategies to address issues related to academic, behavioral, and psychological problems.

19. School psychologists can help teachers, parents, and other professionals use data-based decision making to improve student and systemic outcomes.

21. School psychologists can help teachers understand and accommodate the unique needs of students with mental health problems in the classroom.

23. School psychologists and teachers can work together to advocate for the needs of students at the school, local, state, and national level.

24. Some More Specific Examples … School psychologists work with diverse populations and diverse needs!

26. School psychologists can be trusted to help with delicate personal and family situations that interfere with schooling.

28. School psychologists can help prevent future problems when they intervene with learning problems early on.

30. School psychologists recognize that changes in the school environment and at home can improve the quality of life for children and their families.

32. QUESTIONS?