School Psychology Specialist / Educational Examiner

Gravette Public Schools

Position Description

Position Title: School Psychology Specialist/Educational Examiner

Department: Assigned Building

Reports To: Special Education Director

Evaluated By: Special Education Director

POSTION DESCRIPTION:

The School Psychology Specialist/Educational Examiner is directly responsible for gathering and analyzing data in the process of conducting psychological assessment of academic, social, emotional, and behavioral domains utilizing problem-solving and standardized evaluations.  The School Psychology Specialist/Educational Examiner monitors the completion of evaluations with regard to timeliness and accuracy according to federal, state, and professional standards. The School Psychology Specialist/Educational Examiner participates in IDEA related conferences, which may include Initial Referrals, Reevaluations, Individual Education Plan (IEP) conferences, Early Childhood Special Education transition conferences, Evaluation Programming Conferences and other meetings, as appropriate.  In collaboration with staff, families, students, and communities, the School Psychology Specialist/Educational Examiner promotes effective educational environments. Additionally, the School Psychology Specialist / Educational Examiner will serve as Assistant District Test Coordinator.

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. Valid licensure in Arkansas as a School Psychology Specialist / Educational Examiner.
2. Knowledge of current and valid methods of assessment and assessment instruments, including systematic processes to collect data, and the ability to meaningfully translate assessment results into empirically based reports and communications.
3. Knowledge of learning processes, appropriate instructional interventions to meet students’ needs, and the ability to implement and assess their effectiveness.
4. Knowledge of behavioral mental health and behavior intervention practices as well as collaborative and/or consultation models and methods.

REPORT TO:  Director of Special Education / 504 services

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Conduct psychoeducational assessments including providing interpretation of results for students, parents, and educators. Psychoeducational assessments may include administration of required instruments, reviewing all available data, conducting observations, collaborating with previous districts and other agencies providing supports and services to the student.
2. May participate in Initial Referrals, Reevaluations, Individual Education Plan (IEP) conferences, Early Childhood Special Education transition conferences, Evaluation Programming Conferences and other meetings, as appropriate.
3. Aid families in connecting with appropriate support services.
4. Monitor completion of evaluations and participate in IEP conferences and evaluation meetings.
5. Assist building administration as a member of crisis intervention planning team and provide insight into the development of functional assessments and behavior intervention plans.
6. Assist teachers (general education and special education) to integrate intervention and support services into the classroom environment as appropriate.
7. Provide assistance to staff in the design and implementation of appropriate interventions and accommodations for students.
8. Evaluate and/or translate research into practice and understand research design and statistics in sufficient depth to plan and conduct investigations and program evaluations for improvement of services.
9. Provide support services to parents/guardians, as needed, to assist in understanding results of evaluations and assessments within the special education evaluation process.
10. Coordinate and/or collaborate with a range of individuals/agencies to promote and provide comprehensive services to students and families.
11. Provide and/or assist in professional development for staff, parents, and/or community.
12. Participate in professional growth activities on a yearly basis including recertification activities, workshops, in-services, professional reading materials, and/or other available offerings from professional associations such as National Association of School Psychologists or Arkansas School Psychology Association.
13. Proficiently use technology to communicate, compile reports, and collect data.
14. Participate in building or program activities and meetings as appropriate.
15. Participate in all district provided and required professional development, all professional development specific to maintaining licensure, and to provide appropriate training and professional development to other staff.
16. Maintain current knowledge regarding all instruments utilized within the evaluation process relevant to psychoeducation assessment activities.
17. Assume other duties and special projects as assigned.
18. Support Gravette Policy, the Regulations and Policies of the Arkansas Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the School Codes of Arkansas.