Our Support for Students department is currently seeking contracted services in School Psychology for the 2024-25 school year. A School Psychologist will have a unique set of skills designed to support the complex learning, social, mental and behavioural health needs of students, families, and schools. FUNCTION AND PURPOSE The psychologist in this position is primarily responsible for completing formal, psychological assessments for students from Pre-K to Grade 12 in Elk Island Public Schools. As per the Practice Guideline on Psychological Assessment and Testing (College of Alberta Psychologists), the psychologist completing a formal assessment uses standardized instruments (criteria and norm-referenced), and also clinical interviews, personal histories, behaviour observations, and anecdotal information. The psychologist completes the assessment process, sharing the results with guardians and school staff, and these results inform a practical plan of action going forward. The formal assessment may also result in diagnostic classification.
Formal Assessment Standardized administration and accurate scoring of tests (likely between 60 and 80 assessments per year)
Integrating (when appropriate) norm-referenced data with other sources of information to answer a referral question(s) or formulate a case
Completing structured observations and interviews as necessary to assist in gathering valid and reliable assessment data
Exercising clinical judgement regarding factors which can impact reliability and validity of results
Applying judgement regarding contextual factors which may impact recommendations or professional opinions
Report writing for a wide range of audiences and contexts
Debriefing results with caregivers and school teamsEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Education / Credentials Registered, and in good standing as a psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists
Specific coursework and training related to formal assessmentExperience Five years of experience completing assessments in an educational setting is preferred; experience completing formal assessments in pre-school age children is considered an assetKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ATTITUDES Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
Effective decision-making and leadership qualities.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstration and oral presentation abilities.
Ability to translate and convey highly technical/medical information to parents/guardians and professional staff is essential.
In this multi-disciplinary setting, it is essential to be well informed in all disciplines (speech and language, physical therapy and behavioural interventions) to meet the diverse learning needs of the child/student.
Knowledge of intellectual, academic, adaptive, and behavioural assessment
Knowledge of psychodiagnostics common to school populations and the impact of these in the school setting
Knowledge of exceptional students and Alberta Educations current categories and definitions of exceptionalities
Knowledge of normal lifespan development and cross-cultural differences in learning and socialization
Knowledge of developmental factors and observed behaviour as they relate to psychopathology
Knowledge of academic, instructional, and remedial techniques
Know and skills in working within interdisciplinary teams for case management, program planning and crisis intervention
Knowledge of consulting, counselling, and primary secondary and tertiary intervention programs and techniques for school-aged populations, teachers, and families
Knowledge of systems and group behaviours within, and related to, the school organization, including school climate and culture
Thorough knowledge of principles and practices related to Informed Consent
Skill and experience in completing the entire assessment process according to the standards outlined by the College of Alberta Psychologists
Decision-making ability in selecting testing instruments to align appropriately with the reason for referral
Skill and knowledge related to the control and use of tests by psychologists, as outlined by the College of Alberta Psychologists
Skill and knowledge in writing clear and accurate psychological reports
Commitment to ongoing professional learningFor more information, please contact Marcus Reed, Director, Support for Students, at 780-417-8202 or email marcus.reed@eips.ca.
Only online applications will be accepted.
Elk Island Public Schools appreciates and considers all applications; however, we only contact candidates who are selected for interviews.
If you require assistance with the application system, please call Apply to Education at 1-877-900-5627 or email info@applytoeducation.com.