Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Position: Licensed Specialist in School Psychology- Supervisor-LSSP

Exemption Status/Test: Exempt

Reports to: Executive Director Special Student Services

Dept./School: Special Education-Special Student Services Department

Primary Purpose

Perform professional psychological work in assessment and behavior management for students with emotional disabilities, autism, traumatic brain injury, and other behavioral disorders. Assess the psychological and psycho-educational needs of students referred to special education services as needed. Assist in planning and establishing the Special Education Psychological Services program for Great Hearts Texas.

Qualifications

Education/Certification:

• Master’s degree in psychology from an accredited college or university
• Valid Texas license as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology granted by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists

Experience:

Minimum of three (3) years of experience providing psychology services in an educational setting preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of procedures for assessing achievement, intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning for educational purposes
• Knowledge of prevention and intervention strategies, including behavior management interventions
• Knowledge of psychosocial development
• Strong consultative skills for conferring with teachers, parents, and students
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Major Responsibilities and Duties

Assessment:

• Select and administer assessments and observations to evaluate the intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of referred students and to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and state regulations
• Score and interpret test data
• Develop psychological evaluation reports and behavior management plans
• Participate in the ARD committee to assist with appropriate placement and development of the IEP for students according to district procedures
• Adhere strictly to federal and state evaluation timelines for both initial evaluations and re-evaluations
• Assist in the selection of assessment materials and equipment
• Compile and maintain all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required, including case records, test results, statistical data, and test inventories
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in psychological services and assessment

Communication/Collaboration:

• Consult with district personnel on appropriate instructional strategies, techniques, and materials for students with emotional disturbance, autism spectrum disorders, and traumatic brain injury
• Participate in monthly team meetings and other in-service related activities to explore ideas, view new material/equipment, and share and exchange information
• Work collaboratively with general education and special education teachers to meet the needs and capabilities of each student assigned

Problem Solving and Decision-Making Skills:

• Exhibit initiative in finding and meeting needs and developing new ideas
• Exhibit good judgment in interactions with all students
• Identify problems and suggest solutions in a positive manner

Consultation:

• Consult with other mental health providers at GHTX regarding Special Education students’ mental health
• Provide professional development training, as needed to schools and assist school personnel with the identification and understanding of students with emotional, social, and behavioral disturbances
• Meet with parents to discuss pertinent background information and test results, as needed.
• Consult with teachers and relevant staff concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data, as needed
• Consult with psychologists, diagnosticians, medical doctors, and community agencies concerning the intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of students as needed
• Serve as a consultant in Manifestation Determination ARDs for students who are identified with an emotional disturbance, autism, traumatic brain injury, or other health impairment due to ADD/ADHD

Program Expertise:

• Remain abreast of trends and developments in the evaluation of students suspected of having an emotional disturbance, autism spectrum disorder, and traumatic brain injuries
• Contribute to the development of program guidelines.
• Develop an itinerant schedule for providing assessment services
• Participate in the hiring of other Assessment personnel.
• Assume responsibilities for and maintain confidentiality relative to student record/data

Other Duties:

• Participate in team activities
• Observe all district policies and procedures
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Future GHTX LSSP’s.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors

Tools/Equipment Used: Standard testing equipment; standard office equipment, including computer and peripherals

Posture: Frequent sitting, kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking, grasping/squeezing, wrist flexion/extension

Lifting: Regular light lifting and carrying (under 15 pounds), occasional heaving lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities; controlling behavior through physical restraint; assisting non-ambulatory students

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards, bacteria, and communicable diseases may require districtwide travel

Mental Demands: Work with frequent interruptions; maintain emotional control under pressure

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.