LADSE Job Description: Early Childhood Psychologist
Summary:
To evaluate and support the global developmental processes of learning and to apply
both technical and developmental knowledge of best early childhood practices within
the evaluative and pre-k classroom environments.
Reports to:
Program Coordinator/Administrator
Qualifications: Master's, Specialist, or Doctorate in School Psychology
A valid Illinois Type 73 Certificate for school psychologist
Able to utilize available technology to generate reports, manage data, and maintain
required student records
Training and experience in play based assessment
Valid Illinois driver’s license and access to a reliable, insured vehicle in order to drive
between service provision locations in member districts
Physical
The job requires light physical exertion (e.g., lifting, carrying materials and/or supplies,
Requirements: sitting on floor/small chairs, driving, clerical tasks while sitting or standing, mobility)
with the possibility of occasional moderate exertion (e.g., lifting more than 15 lbs;
assisting students or staff during instruction or evaluation). Independent transportation
is also required because LADSE staff frequently work in multiple locations within the
LADSE community.
Professional
Evaluation:
Standard practice is to conduct evaluations annually for the first four years, bi-annually
in subsequent years. Evaluations are conducted by a program coordinator or designee.
Contract:
Length of contract, salary and benefits are established by the Collective Bargaining
Agreement and/or the LADSE Directing Board.
Status:
Exempt
Essential functions (Duties & Responsibilities)
General
1. Adhere to professional, ethical and legal standards of best practice of psychology in the schools,
as dictated by associated organizations, e.g. ISBE, NASP, NAEYC, CEC-DEC, etc.
2. Implement practices consistent with Danielson Framework for Teaching.
3. Implement LADSE’s policies and procedures.
4. See Employee Handbook – General Duties, Responsibilities, and Competencies.
5. Drive own car, or otherwise provide for transportation between assignment locations.
Specific
Domain 1: Planning and Preparation
1. Identify/utilize appropriate assessment/evaluation tools as indicated by age level and needs of
the student.
2. Understand the special education process/procedures as well as criteria to identify students
having educational needs.
3. Provide clear, concise reports providing a description of typical development, present level of
performance specifically defined in age level or percent of delay, and educational strengths and
needs as well as appropriate interventions/strategies.
April 2013
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LADSE Job Description: Early Childhood Psychologist
Domain 1: Planning and Preparation (cont.)
4. Assess student needs utilizing file review, early intervention reports, and consultation with
parents and school personnel and/or private therapists.
Domain 2: Classroom Environment
1. Establish expectations for student engagement and behavior through developmentally
appropriate means, e.g. visual schedules, behavior charts, movement breaks, etc.
2. Provide classroom staff education/materials regarding classroom/work accommodations to
ensure student safety.
3. Create and maintain a safe environment when providing direct service to students.
4. Consult with teams regarding the classroom environment and its accessibility of materials to
students as well as its ability to promote student independence.
Domain 3: Delivery of Service
1. Demonstrate a strong base of knowledge relative to early childhood development and be
prepared to apply such knowledge in evaluation and consultation.
2. Actively participate in a transdisciplinary evaluation team for the purposes of evaluation and
reevaluation.
3. Utilize knowledge of early childhood development and curricula to develop effective individual
and group interventions addressing student/classroom needs.
4. Actively provide consultation to parents, teachers, administrators, and others to promote
student learning, achievement, and social emotional development.
5. Facilitate social emotional curriculum as needed by district.
6. Refer students and their families to appropriate community agencies and resources.
7. Plan and conduct staff development activities that support inclusive educational practices,
collaboration, and appreciation of individual differences, tolerance, prevention activities,
curricula adaptions, behavior management and structuring of the learning environment.
8. Provide consultation regarding recognition and response practices in the pre-k setting.
Domain 4: Professional Responsibility
1. Maintain student records, including special education reports, confidential records, records of
services provided, and behavioral data.
2. Prepare for and attend team meetings, problem solving meetings, student, meetings and
demonstrate professional behavior while sharing expertise.
3. Maintain effective and professional communication with parents and educational team
members.
4. Assume responsibility for professional growth and share/collaborate with LADSE team
members.
5. Continually improve professional knowledge and skills within the field of early childhood
development, assessment, and curriculum.
6. Effectively utilize technology tools including computer programs, assistive technology and
adaptive equipment.
April 2013
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