BELLINGHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS

BELLINGHAM, MASSACHUSETTS

TITLE: School Psychologist

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES:

1. The School Psychologist will conduct evaluations, prepare and present evaluation reports, participate in the Team meeting process and provide counseling/therapeutic services for at risk students.
2. The School Psychologist will be a collaborative member of the Team and provide support and consultation to teachers and staff.
3. Responsible for the completion of all appropriate State Mandated Special Education forms in compliance with mandated time lines.
4. Conducts psychological and educational assessments and assists staff in the development and implementation of evidence based interventions.
5. Determines and conducts assessments needed for initial and re-evaluation determination of special education.
6. Consults with general and special education teachers, support staff, guidance, and related service providers.
7. Prepares professional reports from assessments
8. Assists in the developing and writing of individualized educational programs (IEP), as part of the TEAM process.
9. Participates in Functional Behavioral Assessments and assists in the development and implementation of Positive Behavioral Intervention Plans.
10. Provides recommendations to regular and special education teachers on how to meet the needs of the child. Familiarity with student learning differences and interventions. Provide consultation to teachers regarding differentiated instruction. Ability to gather data and interpret the data to assess interventions.
11. Maintains professional competence through in-service education and self-selected professional growth activities.
12. Conducts TEAM meetings, as needed.
13. Assumes the role of 504 Plan coordinator.
14. Assumes responsibilities as might be assigned by the Building Principal, Special Education Director, Assistant Superintendent of Special Service, and/or the Superintendent of Schools.

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Experience in providing individual and group counseling and social skills services
2. Is knowledgeable of the state and national special education and confidentiality laws and regulations and complies with all regulations and timelines.
3. Willing to submit to a medical examination.
4. Demonstrated ability to relate favorably with students despite the inappropriate behaviors they may sometimes manifest.
5. Must profess a sincere concern for and optimism to assist young people.
6. Must be a person with professional competence and personal integrity.
7.  Must possess effective verbal and written communication skills and well developed interpersonal skills.
8. Strong writing skills.
9. Possess excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
10. Ability to work collaboratively with parents, students, and staff.

EDUCATIONAL PREPARATION:

1. A degree from an institution approved by the State Board of Education will be required, in addition to a background of experience, which is broad and varied.
2. The applicant must have completed at least one semester of full-time supervised clinical experience in counseling and the administration of psychological testing.
3. Must submit a valid license to practice in the State of Massachusetts.