Psychologist

ROLE SUMMARY:

Founded in 1989, Blue Valley is a private, bilingual, Pre-k through 12th-grade school with over 800 students that offers a challenging combination of Costa Rican and International curricula promoting technology, the arts, and physical wellbeing.

A school psychologist is a professional who works within a school system to support the academic and social-emotional success of students. The primary responsibility of a school psychologist is to provide psychological services to students. She/He plays a crucial role in supporting the academic and social-emotional success of students in a school setting. They work closely with students, educators, and parents to address individual needs and promote a positive school climate that supports student success.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Conducting assessments: School psychologists evaluate students to identify their strengths, weaknesses, and any areas of concern that may impact their academic or social-emotional functioning. 
• Developing interventions: Based on the results of assessments, school psychologists develop interventions and strategies to address students' individual needs. This may include counseling, behavior management plans, and academic support.
• Providing individual and group counseling: School psychologists provide counseling to students who may be struggling with emotional, behavioral, or academic issues. They may also lead group counseling sessions or support groups for students who share similar experiences or needs.
• Collaborating with educators and parents: School psychologists work closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to develop strategies and interventions that support student success. They may also provide training and support to educators to help them better understand and address students' mental health needs.
• Conducting research and program evaluation: School psychologists may conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions and programs designed to support student mental health and academic success.
• Providing crisis intervention: In the event of a crisis, such as a student experiencing a mental health crisis or a school-wide emergency, school psychologists may provide immediate support and assistance to students, families, and staff.
• Advocating for students: School psychologists may advocate for students by identifying and addressing systemic issues that impact student mental health and academic success, such as bullying or lack of access to mental health services.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• Bacherlor or Masters degree in school psychology, counseling psychology, or a related field
• Local licensure or certification as a psychologist
• Strong knowledge of psychology, child and adolescent development, and education policies and practices
• Skills in assessing and evaluating students' cognitive, academic, behavioral, and emotional functioning
• Counseling and intervention skills
• Collaboration and communication skills for working with educators, parents, and other professionals
• Knowledge of special education laws and regulations

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.