Part-Time School Psychologist - Choice Schools

At West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science, our goal is clear; to create an environment where children advance in learning because they learn through discovery.

ABOUT WMAES:

Wonder what it would be like to go snowshoeing through a maple forest? Or what it may be like to cook fresh homemade pizza in a mud oven? Students at WMAES don't wonder they know! We give our students 62-acres of an outdoor classroom to expand their love of learning. Working gardens, nature trails, forests, wetlands and prairies are all available for students to explore. WMAES students transition from desks to dirt, creating an environment for all students to learn.

Our students reap the additional benefits of programs and practices such as: STEAM programming, character education, accelerated learning, differentiated instruction and positive school culture all hallmarks of an effective charter school education.

#EnviroKids are creating a better tomorrow.

Why West Michigan?? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gewI39W4Rgw&feature=youtu.be

OUR MISSION:

West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science strives to provide an environment that will foster creativity, promote academic achievement, and develop sound character and citizenship principles emphasizing responsibility to the environment and society, while maintaining and improving each child's self-esteem and self-concept.

School Psychologist

2024-2025 School Year

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands-on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.
• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.
• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students.

• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

As the School Psychologist, your core responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following:

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assess students for potential psychological concerns and make eligibility recommendations following the MARSE Rules and ISD/RESA guidelines, if applicable.
• Develop special education plans based on data.
• Networking with teachers and families to create Section 504 plans and Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) that help ensure success for students who have disabilities.
• Counseling students and parents while pointing them toward further resources when needed.
• Collaborating with the special education team to design and implement intervention strategies and programs.
• Administering therapy to children with developmental, learning, or behavioral delays.
• Analyzing and treating school children using psychoanalytic and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques.
• Maintaining strict confidentiality regarding student health and academic records.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Knowledge of and skills in best practice instruction specific to various disabilities.
• Knowledge of child development and school systems.
• Skills in managing and promoting positive student behavior.
• Skills and abilities in organization, time management, and record keeping.
• Ability to read a variety of correspondences, medical records, educational records, test results, directives, requests, etc.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with other professionals in a team

setting.

• Ability to interact positively and effectively with parents, students, staff, and

administrators.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to use the special education system to write IEPs and document in the system.
• Lead eligibility meetings.
• Bill Medicaid and complete Random Moments in Time.

Job Goal: To provide specialized psychological therapy services to eligible school students of the academy, evaluating students with learning, developmental, emotional, or behavioral issues, in addition to offering counseling and helping teachers and families create individualized education plans.

Essential Skills and Competencies: While we will consider a broad range of backgrounds, the ideal candidate would have the following qualifications/experience:

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum Requirements:

• Master's Degree.
• Valid Michigan school psychology license.
• Demonstrated competence in all areas of focus, including child and school psychology.
• Case reporting and writing skills.
• Ability to coordinate with students, parents, and staff, individually and in groups.
• Excellent verbal and written expression using proper grammar and vocabulary.
• Exemplary work habits verified by previous employers.
• Strong interpersonal skills.

Desired Requirements:

• Knowledge of and ability to follow and implement the IEP process.
• Knowledge of and skills working with At-Risk students.

Work Location:4463 Leonard St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49534

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. Choice Schools offers a full comprehensive benefits plan, including health care, a competitive 401(K) plan, professional development, and much more. View our benefits options here - https://choiceschools.com/careers/careers-choice-experience/

Please contact Sarah VanderBaan, Chief of Specially Designed Instruction and Student Services at sarahvanderbaan@choiceschools.comwith any questions.

Working for Choice Schools Associates

As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment.

Choice Schools Associates is an equal opportunity employer. Choice Schools Associates does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic background. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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