Innovation Academy Charter School seeks a full-time High School Psychologist for the 2024-25 school year. Situated in Tyngsboro, MA (near the intersection of routes 3 and 495), IACS draws a diverse student body from neighboring districts, including Lowell, Dracut, and Chelmsford, as well as Tyngsboro. Our community represents 19 languages spoken, 38% students of color, 25% of students on special education plans, and a community of students and staff that identify as LGBTQ.
Philosophically, IACS seeks to serve all students within an academically rigorous and culturally responsive community of learners. Teachers at IACS collaborate to develop project-based courses that focus on the development of reading, writing, and oral communication skills, and the practical application of those skills both within and beyond the classroom.
We have a strong mentoring program for teachers new to the school and those new to teaching, including career changers. We welcome candidates who are committed to their own professional learning, open to feedback, and committed to collaboration. IACS is working hard to hire staff that represent the backgrounds and cultures of all of our students. Please note that the school has access to state grant funding designed to encourage diversity among our new hires with funds for relocation, loan repayment and tuition assistance. We strongly encourage candidates to celebrate their diversity and to inquire about the grant funded programs.
JOB SUMMARY
The High School Psychologist will play a vital role in supporting the social, emotional, and psychological well-being of our students in grades 9 to 12. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, have experience working with adolescents, and be committed to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Responsibilities:
Student Counseling and Support:
– Provide individual and group counseling sessions to students dealing with various emotional and behavioral issues, such as anxiety, depression, stress, and peer relationships.
– Collaborate with teachers, parents, and other school staff to develop and implement personalized intervention plans for students in need of additional support.
– Conduct assessments and evaluations to identify students’ psychological and emotional needs, and create appropriate intervention strategies.
Crisis Intervention:
– Be available to respond to critical incidents and emergencies involving students’ mental health and well-being.
– Assess and manage students in crisis situations, ensuring their safety, and liaising with appropriate parties, such as parents, school administrators, and external resources, as necessary.
Preventive Programs:
– Develop and implement preventive programs that address common psychological challenges faced by middle school students, such as bullying prevention, stress management, and conflict resolution.
– Conduct workshops and training sessions for students, parents, and staff on relevant topics related to mental health and emotional well-being.
Consultation and Collaboration:
– Consult with teachers and school personnel to offer guidance on classroom strategies that promote positive behavior and emotional development.
– Collaborate with school teams to support students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans, ensuring their needs are met effectively.
Parental Support:
– Work closely with parents/guardians to provide guidance and resources related to their child’s emotional and behavioral development.
Data Collection and Reporting:
– Maintain accurate and confidential records of counseling sessions, assessments, and interventions.
– Provide regular reports to the school administration regarding trends, needs, and outcomes related to student mental health.
Qualifications:
– Master’s or Doctoral degree in School Psychology or a related field.
– State licensure or certification as a School Psychologist.
– Experience working as a School Psychologist or counselor in a high school or similar educational setting is preferred.
– Strong knowledge of child and adolescent psychology, development, and mental health issues.
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with students, parents, teachers, and school staff.
– Ability to maintain confidentiality and ensure the ethical practice of counseling.
– Proficiency in conducting assessments and utilizing various psychological tools.
– Flexibility and adaptability to meet the diverse needs of students and the school community.
– Understanding of educational laws, regulations, and procedures related to student support services.
Competitive Salary and Benefits
Master degree preferred.
Citizenship, residency or work visa required
Contact Information
- Leanne Barnes
- 72 Tyng Road
- Tyngsborough, Massachusetts 01879
- Phone: 978-649-0432
- Email: lbarnes@innovationcharter.org