Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP)
The Organization
In Fall 2022, Thrive with Autism opened its first groundbreaking public school with the goal of dramatically improving education for children on the autism spectrum. Thrive Center for Success is the first charter school in the state of Texas dedicated to serving a special-needs population. Founded in 2019, Thrive with Autism’s mission and vision have brought hope to families who desperately want better educational options for their children on the autism spectrum. This fall Thrive will serve 132 students Kindergarten through 6th grade, adding a grade level each year to eventually serve up to 12th grade. Thrive plans to open a second campus in central Houston soon.
The Opportunity
Thrive seeks an experienced individual with a track record of delivering successful outcomes for children with special needs to serve as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology (LSSP). The LSSP will support Thrive’s vision/mission, model, and programs by performing professional psychological work in assessment, behavior management, and counseling for students with emotional disabilities, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Additionally, the LSSP will evaluate the psychological and psycho-educational needs of students referred to special education services. Thrive utilizes the Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling (CABAS) model of instruction, and all staff are expected to learn, internalize, and implement this framework in their work. For more on CABAS, visit cabasschools.org. The LSSP will report to Thrive’s Director of Special Education.
Key Responsibilities
Assessment
· Select and administer psychological and psycho-educational assessments and observations to evaluate the competencies of referred students and to determine student eligibility for special education services according to federal and state regulations.
· Score and interpret test data to develop psychological evaluation reports and behavior management plans.
· Conductor participate in the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Committee to assist with appropriate placement and development of Individual Education Plans (IEP) for students according to district procedures.
Consultation
· Conduct group, individual, and family counseling sessions and facilitative therapy for students with diagnosed problems.
· Serve as consultant on mental health topics for instructors in the school health program.
· Consult with school staff regarding implementation of behavior intervention plans and in managing behaviorally disruptive students.
· Provide staff development training to assist school personnel with identification and understanding of students with emotional, social, and behavioral disturbances.
· Consult with teachers and relevant staff concerning the educational needs of students and interpretation of assessment data.
· Consult with private service providers, medical doctors, and/or community agencies concerning intellectual, emotional, and behavioral functioning of students as needed.
Program Management
· Support implementation of the CABAS model in the classroom.
· Screen and implement protocols for situational crisis including bullying, reports of abuse, and suicidal ideation.
· Support implementation of social emotional learning (SEL) curriculum and multi-tiered Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports.
· Participate as part of a TBSI (Texas Behavior Support Initiative) site team.
· Provide Safety Care training to faculty as a certified trainer.
· Compile, maintain, and file all physical and computerized reports, records, and other documents required, including case records, test results, statistical data, and test inventories.
· Comply with policies established by federal and state law, State Board of Education rule, and local board policy in the areas of psychological services, assessment, placement, and planning for special education services.
· Comply with all district and local campus routines and regulations.
· Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to job assignment.
· Provide staff and parent trainings on topics related to school psychology.
Communication and Professionalism
· Maintain a positive and effective relationship with supervisors.
· Effectively communicate with colleagues, students, and parents.
· Possess exceptional communication and relationship skills and proven experience building relationships with diverse stakeholders and communities.
· Self-manage stress and task with excellent organizational skills.
· Maintain professionalism and emotional control under pressure.
· Consistently uphold professional obligations through efficient work habits such as maintaining student confidentiality, establishing meeting schedules, continuously communicating in a positive and proactive manner, and honoring deadlines.
Supervision/Management
· At the request of the Director of Special Education:
o Provide clinical supervision to intern or trainee**
o Therapeutic and/or related service providers including (but not limited to) Speech/Occupational/Physical/Music/Academic Therapists
Complete other implementation projects and duties as assigned by the Executive Director, Principal, Director of Special Education/or Board of Directors.
Competencies and Commitments:
● Passion for the mission of Thrive; demonstrated commitment to equitable educational opportunities for children with special needs and/or learning differences.
● Holds high expectations for self and others to achieve and surpass intended goals.
● Ability to set direction and motivate others to action; demonstrated ability to lead people and get results through work with others.
● Ability to thrive in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment that requires creativity, adaptability, and an orientation to problem-solving.
● Analytical skills; ability to synthesize data to set priorities.
● Strong work ethic; willingness to work beyond a 40-hour week to serve students.
● Authentic, humble, servant-leader orientation.
● Growth mindset; strong receptiveness to give and receive frequent feedback.
● Flexibility to learn new model and receive feedback.
● Maintain a clear criminal record.
Qualifications
Required:
· Able to lift 50 pounds, run 100 yards, drop/lift to one knee, go up/downstairs, and pass all verbal/physical competencies to be a fully certified Safety Care Specialist
· Master’s degree in psychology from accredited college or university
· Valid Texas license as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology granted by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists*
· Willingness to work on some evenings or other non-standard business hours, as required by the needs of the school and in accordance with the duties outlined above
Highly Preferred:
· Supervision/leadership experience
· At least three years public school psychological services experience
· Applied Behavior Analysis knowledge, training, and expertise
· Knowledge/experience working with students with autism
· Fluency in Spanish
Thrive’s Commitment to Diversity
Thrive with Autism is committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive environment. Thrive with Autism is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression, national origin, disability, age, marital status, military status, pregnancy, or parenthood.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation for the LSSP role begins at $55,000 and increases based on years of relevant experience and earned degrees.
Thrive offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical and dental benefits, and time off via school holidays, summer break, and PTO. Thrive is a participant in the Teacher’s Retirement System of Texas (TRS).
*Compensation rates are contingent upon the confirmation of grant-based funding for the 23-24 school year as well as approval by the Thrive Board of Directors.
To Apply: Visit www.thrivesuccess.org/jobs
