School Psychologist

School Psychologist

Primary Function:   The School Psychologist provides services in support of Iowa School for the Deaf’s mission which is to prepare deaf and hard of hearing students from pre-school to age 21 for life as literate citizens who contribute to society. The School Psychologist collaborates with ISD teachers, school counselors and professionals in other disciplines (e.g. mental health specialists, DHS personnel, other AEA professionals) to assist students in meeting their goals

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conducts academic, intellectual, adaptive behavior, and/or psychological evaluations for Deaf and hard of hearing students from birth to 21 years old, including those with additional disabilities.=
• Writes re-evaluation plans, individual assessments, as well as comprehensive psychological evaluation reports. Evaluates students to determine their instructional placement, necessary support services, and eligibility for disability benefits
• Offers direct consultation, coaching, and modeling of teaching strategies and behavioral interventions to teachers and staff members. Plans and delivers appropriate agency-approved activities, including professional development, as directed by the principal. 
• Monitors student outcomes and adjusts strategies based on observational, academic, and perceptual student data.
• Provides assistance in identifying learners who may be experiencing academic, behavioral, or developmental difficulties that could lead to school failure. Coordinates with teachers, parents, and other school staff to determine the root cause of the issue. Works with instructional staff members to provide structured support to help students learn new concepts or skills.
• Monitors and helps students attain academic, behavioral, and/or personal competencies. Provides one-on-one, small group, or peer counseling to students, as needed. Provides crisis counseling and refers students to community agencies, when necessary.
• Assists in the development and implementation of positive, school-wide systems of support. Collects data and monitors student progress to promote academic and behavioral outcomes. Explicitly teaches expected personal and academic behaviors to students.
• Attends IEP meetings on an as needed basis. Provides psychological assessment data to IEP team members. Assists in the interpretation of data and provides recommendations towards goal development, as requested. Maintains open lines of communication with parents and answers questions related to student progress.
• Assists with student intake meetings, including tours, contacts, and requests for student records. Familiarizes students and parents with ISD resources and opportunities for personal and academic growth. Performs other duties as assigned to support students or the school.
• Engages in continuing professional development activities to stay current with the latest trends and advancements. Utilizes research in school practice by reading research literature, analyzing and summarizing research findings, and conducting action research related to practical problems. Develops a deeper understanding of issues and implement evidence-based practices to improve outcomes for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Completion of an Education degree and eligible to meet State of Iowa licensure requirements for School Psychologist.
• American Sign Language minimum level of advanced required. 
• Experience working with Deaf and hard of hearing students preferred, but not required.