DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
P.O.
SUPTS. MEMO NO. 275
November 7, 2008
INFORMATIONAL
TO: Division Superintendents
FROM: Patricia I. Wright
Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT: Celebration
of School Psychologists' Week (November 10-14, 2008)
The Virginia
Department of Education is pleased to join the National Association of School
Psychologists in celebrating the contributions that school psychologists make
to our collaborative work as professional educators. School psychologists work with
general and special educators, parents, administrators and other professionals
to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for children. They work across the spectrum of ages and grades:
preschool to post-high school.
In addition to
possessing a working knowledge of childhood learning and developmental processes, school
psychologists possess individual and group assessment skills that make them
invaluable members of school problem-solving teams. A school psychologist's counseling, consultation
and crisis intervention skills enhance a school's services in academic and
social areas.
School psychologists
are frontline mental health providers and possess a thorough knowledge of community
agencies and resources. Their knowledge
in this area enables them to be bridge-builders between schools and homes. A school psychologist's knowledge and skills
in research areas are helpful in matters involving program planning and program
evaluation.
Questions regarding
psychological services at the state level can be directed to Wayne Barry,
via e-mail wayne.barry@doe.virginia.gov
or telephone (804) 692-0396.
PIW/WB/cdc