School psychologists have a minimum of a specialist-level graduate degree in school psychology which combines the disciplines of psychology and education. They typically have extensive knowledge of learning, motivation, behavior, childhood disabilities, assessment, evaluation, and school law. School psychologists specialize in analyzing complex student and school problems and selecting and implementing appropriate evidence-based interventions to improve outcomes at home and school. Center Grove School psychologists consult with teachers and parents to provide coordinated services and supports for students struggling with learning disabilities, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disabilities such as learning needs related to cerebral palsy and Down Syndrome, emotional and behavioral problems, and those experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, grief, and loss. They also identify and serve preschool students with disabilities.
They are regular members of school crisis teams and collaborate with school administrators and other educators to prevent and respond to crises. They have specialized training in conducting risk and threat assessments designed to identify students at risk for harming themselves or others. School psychologists’ training in evaluation, data collection, and interpretation can help ensure that decisions made about students, the school system, and related programs and learning supports are based on appropriate evidence. (www.iasponline.org) (nasponline.org) School Behavior Coaches work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders to promote positive behavior change district-wide. They provide support for student(s) who have intense behavioral difficulties that could put them at risk for a more restrictive educational environment. School behavior coaches are required to have a behavioral background, either from years of experience working in a related field or educational (minimum requirement is a HS diploma but preferred bachelors or higher education). They develop and implement behavior support plans in order to stabilize and provide more opportunities for success in his/her current placement. Duties can include but are not limited to: informal assessments, training and assistance to increase compliance and socially accepted behaviors, the development of a child’s lagging skills and the overall reduction of the students unexpected behaviors. The school behavior coach works within the special education programs, providing supports to individuals with an IEP.