Somerset County Public Schools is recruiting School Psychologists for the 2026-2027 school year. Join a small but mighty district offering competitive salaries, a generous leave package, supportive leadership, and a strong sense of community. State of Maryland licensed School Occupational Therapists receiving National Certification will receive an additional $2000 in salary.
I. Position Summary
The School Psychologist provides comprehensive psychological services, including assessment, consultation, and intervention, as a core member of the multidisciplinary Individualized Education Program (IEP) and 504 teams. This role focuses on supporting students academic success, social-emotional development, and mental health through evidence-based practices.
Schedule: 10-month contract. Per diem summer work may be required based on caseload and evaluation timelines.
Incentives: Additional compensation and stipend available for individuals holding the Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential.
II. Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Assessment & Evaluation
• Conducts comprehensive psychological evaluations, including cognitive, academic, social-emotional, and behavioral assessments. • Interprets data to determine eligibility for special education services under IDEA and COMAR.
Intervention & Counseling
• Formulates recommendations for remedial and therapeutic measures. • Provides individual and group counseling to students to support social-emotional and academic goals.
IEP & 504 Participation
• Participates in Admissions Review and Dismissal (ARD) IEP team meetings. • Translates complex psychological data into actionable classroom strategies for teachers and parents.
Behavioral Support
• Conducts Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and assists in developing Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs).
Consultation
• Collaborates with administrators, teachers, and parents regarding classroom management, instructional strategies, and school climate.
Crisis Intervention
• Provides immediate crisis intervention assistance to students, staff, and the school community as part of the districts safety and mental health team.
Documentation
• Prepares professional psychological reports using the Maryland Online IEP (MOIEP) system. • Ensures all state and federal timelines are met.
III. Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
Education and Experience
• Degree: Specialist-level degree (e.g., Ed.S., Psy.S., or Doctoral degree) in School Psychology from a NASP-approved program. • Experience: Previous experience in a K-12 setting is preferred. Knowledge of Maryland special education regulations is highly desirable.
Certificates Licenses Registrations
• Certification: Must hold or be eligible for the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) Specialist Certificate with the School Psychologist endorsement. • National Certification: NCSP Nationally Certified School Psychologist credential preferred, stipend eligible. • Drivers License: A valid drivers license is required for travel between school sites.
Skills and Abilities
• Technical Proficiency: Mastery of standardized assessment tools and interpretation. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and IEP management software. • Communication: Ability to communicate sensitive diagnostic information clearly and empathetically to diverse audiences. • Analytical Reasoning: Ability to apply the scientific body of knowledge to solve complex educational and behavioral problems.
IV. Physical Demands & Work Environment
Physical Effort:
• Regularly required to sit, talk, and hear. • Occasionally required to lift or move testing kits up to 50 lbs.
Travel:
• Must be able to travel to multiple school locations and regional meetings within the County.
Environment:
• Typical school office and classroom settings. The noise level is generally moderate but may increase during crisis intervention or playground observations.
Equal Opportunity
Somerset County Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.