School Psychologist

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL FOR BLIND CHILDREN•Pittsburgh, PA

18d•Onsite

About The Position

The School Psychologist supports the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral success of students by providing comprehensive psychological services in accordance with federal and state regulations. The School Psychologist collaborates with educators, families, related service providers, and administrators to identify student needs, develop appropriate interventions, and promote positive educational outcomes. Given the specialized nature of the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children, the School Psychologist utilizes expertise in working with students who are blind or visually impaired and students with multiple disabilities, including complex communication, behavioral, developmental, and medical needs.

Requirements

Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) Educational Specialist Certificate in School Psychology.
Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (CAGS), Specialist Degree (Ed.S.), Psy.D., or Ed.D. in School Psychology from an accredited institution.
Knowledge of special education laws and regulations, including IDEA, Section 504, and Chapter 14.
Knowledge of evidence-based assessment, intervention, behavioral supports, and consultation practices.
Strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with students who are blind or visually impaired and/or students with multiple disabilities preferred.

Responsibilities

Conduct comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations, including Initial Evaluations (ERs), Reevaluations (RRs), and other assessments as required.
Select, administer, score, and interpret appropriate assessment instruments while considering each student's visual impairment, communication abilities, cognitive functioning, and other disabilities.
Conduct observations, interviews, record reviews, and functional assessments to determine students' educational needs.
Prepare comprehensive evaluation reports that clearly summarize findings, determine eligibility, and provide educationally relevant recommendations.
Participate in multidisciplinary evaluations and eligibility determination meetings.
Collaborate with teachers, related service providers, administrators, and families to support student learning and well-being.
Provide consultation regarding academic, behavioral, social-emotional, and adaptive functioning.
Assist instructional teams in developing evidence-based interventions and positive behavior support strategies.
Support crisis prevention, intervention, and post-crisis planning when needed.
Participate as an active member of IEP teams and multidisciplinary teams.
Identify students who may benefit from counseling, social-emotional supports, or behavioral interventions.
Provide individual and/or group counseling services when appropriate.
Conduct functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) and assist in the development and monitoring of Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSPs) and Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
Monitor student progress and recommend adjustments to interventions as appropriate.
Provide training and consultation to staff regarding behavioral strategies, trauma-informed practices, mental health awareness, and social-emotional learning.
Assist in developing school-wide practices that promote positive behavior, student engagement, and emotional wellness.
Remain current on best practices, research, and legal requirements related to school psychology and special education.
Ensure evaluations, reports, and documentation comply with IDEA, Section 504, Pennsylvania Department of Education regulations, and school policies.
Maintain confidential student records and documentation in accordance with applicable laws.
Complete required documentation and reports within established timelines.
Adhere to all school policies, procedures, and personnel guidelines.
Participate in professional development and required school meetings.
Perform other duties as assigned.