School Psychologist

Job Title

School Psychologist

Job Description

This is a non-merit position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise. Iowa School for the Deaf (ISD) is located on a 115 acre campus located on the southern edge of Council Bluffs, Iowa. The campus is within 15 minutes of downtown Omaha, Nebraska. ISD serves students from the states of Iowa and Nebraska. Primary Function The School Psychologist provides services in support of Iowa School for the Deaf's mission which is to prepare deaf and hard of hearing students from pre-school to age 21 for life as literate citizens who contribute to society. The School Psychologist collaborates with ISD teachers, school counselors and professionals in other disciplines (e.g. mental health specialists, DHS personnel, other AEA professionals) to assist students in meeting their goals. Typical Duties and Responsibilities Conduct Assessments Oversee school-wide student assessments. Complete academic, intellectual, adaptive behavior, and psychological evaluations with deaf and hard of hearing students from birth to 21 including students with additional disabilities. Write re-evaluation plans, full and individual evaluations, and comprehensive psychological evaluation reports. Work involves testing and evaluating students to determine instructional placement, support services, and disability eligibilities. Support ISD school personnel Assist faculty and support staff in interpreting assessments and other student data. Assist faculty and support staff in IEP goal writing and progress monitoring. Provide assistance in identifying learners having academic/social-emotional/behavioral/developmental difficulties that could lead to school failure. Provide direct consultation, coaching, and modeling of instructional techniques and teaching strategies to faculty and support staff concerning student behaviors, curriculum development/adjustment, student learning style, adoption of methods and materials. Arrange, plan, and deliver appropriate agency approved activities, including professional development, as directed by the Principal. Oversee IEP Development Work with teachers and GHAEA staff to ensure ISD IEPs are compliant and of high quality Attend IEPs to discuss assessments Provide support for students Monitor and help student attainment of academic, social/personal, and emotional competencies Counsel students in the personal/social, academic, emotional domains Provide crisis counseling Provide referral services to community agencies Communicate with parent(s) Program Support Assist with student intakes: Tours, contacts, request for records, attend IEP meetings and complete initial evaluations. Other duties as assigned to support students or the school Professional Development Participate in continuing professional development activities to enhance professional knowledge and skills. Use research in school practice by (a) reading research literature, (b) distributing and synthesizing research findings, and (c) conducting action research related to applied problems. Desirable Qualifications Experience working with Deaf and hard of hearing students. Teaching license with subject area endorsement and deaf/hard-of-hearing endorsement. Qualification Completion of an Education degree and eligible to meet State of Iowa licensure requirements for School Psychologist American Sign Language minimum level of advanced required. Information on Iowa licensing requirements may be found at the Board of Educational Examiners webpage:

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1. One of the following current licenses from the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners: School Psychologist; or School Counseling; or Speech Language Pathologist.
2. All of the following (a and b): Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in orientation and mobility; and Possession of a current Iowa Orientation and Mobility Specialist license.
3. All of the following (a and b): Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field; and Possession of a current Iowa Teaching Certificate.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset – our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

• Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.
• Health and Wellness: Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.
• Retirement Planning: We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind.
• Paid Time Off: Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.
• Professional Development: Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.
• Diversity and Inclusion: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!