Who are we?

What is a school psychologist?

"School psychologists help children and youth succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. They collaborate with educators, parents, and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for all students that strengthen connections between home and school." (NASP)

What is the role of a school psychologist at Van Cortlandtville Elementary School?

The school psychologists have many different roles. The following are just a few examples:

• As a mandated member of the Committee on Special Education (CSE), we evaluate children to determine initial or continued eligibility for special education services.
• We provide counseling to students individually or in groups to help resolve issues that interfere with school performance.
• We collaborate and consult with teachers, parents, and administrators to find effective solutions to learning and behavior problems.
• We work with school staff to design academic and behavior management programs and evaluate their effectiveness.
• We communicate and collaborate with students' outside community service providers.
• We help the school and families manage crises such as death, illness, or community trauma.

What is a school social worker?

School Social Workers are trained mental health professionals with a degree in social work who provide services related to a person's social, emotional and life adjustment to school and/or society. School Social Workers are the link between the home, school and community in providing direct as well as indirect services to students, families and school personnel to promote and support students' academic and social success. (SSWAA)

What is the role of a school social worker at Van Cortlandtville Elementary School?

The School Social Worker responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• We provide counseling, both in groups and individually, including social skills groups.
• We provide teacher consultations to assess the needs of children.
• We monitor attendance to ensure all students are consistently attending school.
• We work closely with the community and provide referrals and liaison work.
• We help with youth suicide prevention and intervention, as well as various crisis interventions.
• We advocate for your child and family.
• We work school wide on bullying prevention and intervention.