School Psychologist

ABOUT THE SCHOOL: 

Located in the heart of Oakland, Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is a one-of-a-kind educational experience committed to empowering our students to realize their full potential. The School also provides vital early intervention and outreach services to visually impaired students, with or without additional challenges, throughout western Pennsylvania. Founded in 1887, our School is best equipped to care for and educate students with visual impairments. As a private institution chartered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, the School educates approximately 200 enrolled students from 80-85 school districts within western Pennsylvania.

POSITION SUMMARY:

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.

FLSA Status: Exempt

Working Schedule: 207 days per year; Mondays through Fridays; Shift time must revolve around core school hours of 9a-2p. 

Compensation: To be determined based on education, experience, and certifications

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Evaluation and Assessment

• 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.

Consultation and Collaboration

• 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.

Counseling and Behavioral Support

• 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.

Professional Development and Systems Support

• 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.

Compliance and Documentation

• 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.

Other Duties

• Adhere to all school policies, procedures, and personnel guidelines.
• Participate in professional development and required school meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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.
• Experience working with students who are blind or visually impaired and/or students with multiple disabilities preferred.
• Knowledge of evidence-based assessment, intervention, behavioral supports, and consultation practices.
• Strong written, verbal, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 20 pounds on an occasional basis, such as files, testing materials, office supplies, or educational resources.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and occasionally kneel while observing students or accessing files and materials.
• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to move throughout classrooms, offices, meeting spaces, and other school facilities.
• Ability to respond appropriately during emergency or crisis situations.

Work Environment

The School Psychologist works in a collaborative educational environment serving students who are blind or visually impaired, many of whom have multiple disabilities and complex educational, behavioral, communication, and medical needs. The position requires flexibility, teamwork, and a commitment to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.