Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) is one of the largest school divisions in Alberta, serving the educational needs of approximately 17,750 students in 42 schools. Every day, the staff and students of EIPS are encouraged to pursue opportunities to grow and discover their passions in life. The Division prides itself on providing staff and students with the tools to achieve success by offering dynamic programming, up-to-date resources and practical professional learning opportunities.

Our Support for Students department is currently seeking contracted services in School Psychology for the 2024-25 school year. A School Psychologist will have a unique set of skills designed to support the complex learning, social, mental and behavioural health needs of students, families, and schools. FUNCTION AND PURPOSE The psychologist in this position is primarily responsible for completing formal, psychological assessments for students from Pre-K to Grade 12 in Elk Island Public Schools. As per the Practice Guideline on Psychological Assessment and Testing (College of Alberta Psychologists), the psychologist completing a formal assessment uses standardized instruments (criteria and norm-referenced), and also clinical interviews, personal histories, behaviour observations, and anecdotal information. The psychologist completes the assessment process, sharing the results with guardians and school staff, and these results inform a practical plan of action going forward. The formal assessment may also result in diagnostic classification.

Formal Assessment Standardized administration and accurate scoring of tests (likely between 60 and 80 assessments per year)

Integrating (when appropriate) norm-referenced data with other sources of information to answer a referral question(s) or formulate a case

Completing structured observations and interviews as necessary to assist in gathering valid and reliable assessment data

Exercising clinical judgement regarding factors which can impact reliability and validity of results

Applying judgement regarding contextual factors which may impact recommendations or professional opinions

Report writing for a wide range of audiences and contexts

Debriefing results with caregivers and school teamsEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Education / Credentials Registered, and in good standing as a psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists

Specific coursework and training related to formal assessmentExperience Five years of experience completing assessments in an educational setting is preferred; experience completing formal assessments in pre-school age children is considered an assetKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ATTITUDES Ability to work as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.

Effective decision-making and leadership qualities.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Demonstration and oral presentation abilities.

Ability to translate and convey highly technical/medical information to parents/guardians and professional staff is essential.

In this multi-disciplinary setting, it is essential to be well informed in all disciplines (speech and language, physical therapy and behavioural interventions) to meet the diverse learning needs of the child/student.

Knowledge of intellectual, academic, adaptive, and behavioural assessment

Knowledge of psychodiagnostics common to school populations and the impact of these in the school setting

Knowledge of exceptional students and Alberta Educations current categories and definitions of exceptionalities

Knowledge of normal lifespan development and cross-cultural differences in learning and socialization

Knowledge of developmental factors and observed behaviour as they relate to psychopathology

Knowledge of academic, instructional, and remedial techniques

Know and skills in working within interdisciplinary teams for case management, program planning and crisis intervention

Knowledge of consulting, counselling, and primary secondary and tertiary intervention programs and techniques for school-aged populations, teachers, and families

Knowledge of systems and group behaviours within, and related to, the school organization, including school climate and culture

Thorough knowledge of principles and practices related to Informed Consent

Skill and experience in completing the entire assessment process according to the standards outlined by the College of Alberta Psychologists

Decision-making ability in selecting testing instruments to align appropriately with the reason for referral

Skill and knowledge related to the control and use of tests by psychologists, as outlined by the College of Alberta Psychologists

Skill and knowledge in writing clear and accurate psychological reports

Commitment to ongoing professional learningFor more information, please contact Marcus Reed, Director, Support for Students, at 780-417-8202 or email marcus.reed@eips.ca.

Only online applications will be accepted.

Elk Island Public Schools appreciates and considers all applications; however, we only contact candidates who are selected for interviews.

If you require assistance with the application system, please call Apply to Education at 1-877-900-5627 or email info@applytoeducation.com.