Assessment Staff (Diagnostician)/ School Psychologist

Primary Purpose:

Assess the educational, learning styles, and program needs of students referred to special education services. Work cooperatively with instructional personnel to provide the most appropriate instructional programs for students with disabilities. Implement the special education appraisal process and provide diagnostic information.

Education/Certification:

Qualifications for Educational Diagnostician

Master’s degree in educational assessment

Valid Texas teaching certificate

Valid Texas educational diagnostician certificate

Bilingual perferred

Experience:

Three years teaching experience

Education/Certification:

Qualifications for School Psychology

Master’s Degree from a National Association of Psychologist) approved institution (or pending)

Licensed Specialist in School Psychology

Experience:

Experience in education or a related field preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills For Assessment Staff:

Knowledge of diagnostic procedures, education of special education students, human development, and learning theories

Ability to interpret data

Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Major Responsibilities And Duties:

Assessment

• Select and administer formal and informal assessments to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and Texas Education Agency regulations.
• Compile and evaluate comprehensive student information including classroom observations; personal interviews with the student, teachers(s), parents and others; and relevant assessment data from student’s cumulative folder. Consult with parents and teacher concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
• Participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with interpretation of assessment data, appropriate placement, and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
  
  

Consultation

• Present staff development training in assigned schools to assist school personnel in identifying and understanding students with disabilities.
• Assist classroom teachers with implementation of IEP.
• Consult with student, parent, teacher and other school staff members concerning the educational and emotional needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
  
  

Program Management

• Participate in the selection of assessment materials and equipment.
• Develop and coordinate a continuing evaluation of the assessment program and make changes based on findings.
• Compile, maintain, and file reports, records, and other documents required.
• Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy. Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
  
  

Supervisory Responsibilities:

None.

Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Tools/Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals, and other instructional equipment

Posture: Prolonged standing; frequent kneeling/squatting, bending/stooping, pushing/pulling, and twisting

Motion: Frequent walking

Lifting: May require regular heavy lifting (45 pounds or more) and positioning of students with physical disabilities, control behavior through physical restraint, assist non-ambulatory students, and lift and move adaptive equipment; may work prolonged or irregular hours

Environment: Exposure to biological hazards; may require districtwide travel

Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress