School Psychologist at Northwestern Illinois Association

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 per day and earns $54,727.32 - $104,303, depending on experience.  

As a School Psychologist at NIA, your work will involve measuring and interpreting intellectual, adaptive, academic, social, and emotional development and using these insights 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 Individualized Education Programs (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: As a local governmental agency, School Psychologists who are eligible participate in the Teachers’ Retirement System of Illinois (TRS). 
• Learn more about TRS at https://www.trsil.org/
• Additional Retirement Savings Options: NIA also offers access to 403(b) and 457 retirement savings plans. These are optional, employee-funded plans that provide additional opportunities for tax-advantaged savings, helping you build a more robust retirement strategy.
• 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: Receive guidance and evaluation from leaders who understand your expertise
• Ready Access to Equipment and Testing Materials
• Ongoing Professional Development: Enhance your knowledge and skills for school-based services
• Collaborative Environment: Engage in monthly meetings, roundtable discussions, and collaboration time with colleagues
• Regular 1:1 Check-Ins: Stay connected with your leaders through regular check-ins and team meetings
• Mission-Driven: We are deeply committed to partnering with schools to meet the unique needs of students, making a real difference in their lives every day.
• Leadership in Education: Serving 68 school districts across Northern Illinois, NIA is recognized as a leader in providing exceptional special education support.
• Innovation: We continuously improve our services and embrace new technologies to enhance education and meet the evolving needs of our students.
• Employee-Focused: We invest in your growth with professional development opportunities, a supportive work environment, and recognition of your contributions.
• Quality of Life: Live and work in Northern Illinois, known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant communities, and easy access to Chicago.

School Psychologist Qualifications

• Must have a Master’s /Specialist degree or Doctorate in School Psychology 
• Hold or be eligible for an Illinois professional educator license with a School Psychologist (PK-Age 21) endorsement.
• Proficiency with school-based technology and office equipment, including computers and specialized software applications like Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

Compensation details: 54727.32-104303 Hourly Wage

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