School Psychologist

Job Description

Northwestern Illinois Association (NIA) is a regional governmental agency that provides special education support to 68 school districts across Northwestern Illinois. Our mission is to partner with schools to meet the unique needs of students, and we empower our team with professional growth opportunities, comprehensive benefits, and a values-driven culture.

The School Psychologist works 182 days per year for 7 hours daily and earns $42.95-$81.87 per hour, depending on experience.

As a School Psychologist at NIA, your work will involve measuring and interpreting intellectual, adaptive, academic, social, and emotional development to support students’ growth.

School Psychologist Job Duties

• Administer and score psychological assessments: Conduct and interpret psychological and neuropsychological tests to evaluate students' cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning.
• Analyze and interpret developmental data: Measure intellectual, adaptive, academic, social, and emotional development to provide tailored support for students' growth.
• Develop and implement intervention plans: Collaborate with school staff to create and execute strategies that address the specific educational needs of eligible students.
• Provide direct counseling services: Offer individual and group counseling to students facing emotional, social, or behavioral challenges.
• Consult with staff and families: Work with teachers, administrators, and parents to develop and apply effective interventions and support strategies.
• Monitor student progress and outcomes: Regularly evaluate the success of interventions and modify strategies to ensure students’ educational and personal success.
• Participate in IEP meetings: Provide expertise on psychological assessments and strategies, ensuring students receive the appropriate accommodations and support as part of their IEPs.
• Respond to school crises: Offer crisis intervention services to students and staff during critical incidents, ensuring emotional and psychological stability.
• Engage in professional development: Stay current with best practices, legal guidelines, and ethical standards related to school psychology and special education.

School Psychologist Benefits

• Group Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance: Available for employees working 0.75 FTE or more, with PPO and HSA options.
• Defined-Benefit Pension Plans: Participation in the Teachers’ Retirement System of Illinois (TRS).
• Additional Retirement Savings Options: Access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans.
• Paid Personal Leave and Sick Leave: Based on the number of days worked.
• Telemedicine: Access to 1800MD telemedicine services at no cost.
• Summer Work Opportunities: Opportunities to pick up additional summer work and earn extra pay.
• Summers Off with Year-Round Pay
• $3,000 Signing Bonus
• Expert Feedback and Evaluation: Guidance and evaluation from experienced leaders.
• Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
• Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance knowledge and skills for school-based services.
• Collaborative Environment: Monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues.
• Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Regular check-ins and team meetings with leaders.
• Mission-Driven: Commitment to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students.
• Leadership in Education: Recognized leader in providing exceptional special education support.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies to enhance education.
• Employee-Focused: Investment in growth and a supportive work environment.
• Quality of Life: Live and work in Northern Illinois with access to vibrant communities.

Job Requirements

• Master’s/Specialist degree or Doctorate in School Psychology.
• Eligibility for an Illinois professional educator license with a School Psychologist endorsement.
• Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment.