Professional Standards and Evaluation
The NC Professional School Psychologist Standards were approved by the State Board of Education in 2009. The standards are intended to help guide school psychologists and school systems in the development and implementation of a comprehensive school psychology service delivery model.
Standard 1: School Psychologists Demonstrate Leadership
- School psychologists demonstrate leadership in the schools
- School psychologists enhance the school psychology profession
- School psychologists advocate for students, families, schools, and communities
- School psychologists demonstrate high ethical standards
Standard 2: School Psychologists Promote a Respectful Environment for Diverse Populations
- School psychologists promote an environment in which each student has positive nurturing relationships with caring adults
- School psychologists use a global perspective to embrace diversity in the school, home, and community
- School psychologists support high expectations for all students
- School psychologists provide services that benefit students with unique needs
- School psychologists work collaboratively with students and families
Standard 3: School Psychologists Use Their Knowledge of the School Environment, Child Development, and Curriculum and Instruction to Improve Student Achievement
- School psychologists deliver comprehensive services unique to their speciality area
- School psychologists recognize the relationship between the school environment, curriculum, and instruction, and the impact on the student learner
- School psychologists facilitate student acquisition of twenty-first century skills
- School psychologists develop comprehensive school psychological services that are relevant to all students
Standard 4: School Psychologists support Student Learning Through the Use of a Systematic Problem-Solving Approach
- School psychologists use a variety of strength-based methods
- School psychologists help students develop critical thinking and problem solving skills
- School psychologists support students as they develop leadership qualities
- School psychologists possess effective communication skills
Standard 5: School Psychologists Reflect on Their Practice
- School psychologists analyze the impact of the school psychological services on student learning
- School psychologists link professional growth to their professional goals
- School psychologists function effectively in a complex, dynamic environment
In 2020, the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) issued updated their practice model for school psychologists. The 2020 NASP Practice Model includes 10 practice domains:
- Data-Based Decision Making
- Consultation and Collaboration
- Academic Interventions and Instructional Supports
- Mental and Behavioral Health Services and Interventions
- School-Wide Practices to Promote Learning
- Services to Promote Safe and Supportive Schools
- Family, School, and Community Collaboration
- Equitable Practices for Diverse Student Populations
- Research and Evidence-Based Practice
- Legal, Ethical, and Professional Practice