The Role of the School Psychologist during Intervention

The expertise of school psychologists makes them valuable members of the MTSS team.

School psychologists play a crucial role in the MTSS process. Here are some of the key roles and contributions of a school psychologist in a tiered system:

1. Conducting Assessments: School psychologists are trained to administer and interpret various assessments to evaluate students' academic, social, emotional, and behavioral functioning. They play a key role in the initial screening process to identify students who may need additional support.

2. Data Collection and Analysis: School psychologists help collect and analyze data to monitor students' progress over time. This involves using standardized assessments, observations, and other tools to track how a student is responding to interventions.

3. Providing Expertise in Psychological Principles: School psychologists bring a deep understanding of psychological principles and theories, which they apply to understanding and addressing the unique needs of students within the RTI framework.

4. Collaboration and Consultation: They collaborate with teachers, parents, and other members of the RTI team to develop and implement effective interventions. They also provide consultation to teachers regarding strategies and techniques for supporting struggling students.

5. Designing and Implementing Interventions: School psychologists help design and implement targeted interventions at Tier 2 and Tier 3 levels. They provide guidance on evidence-based practices that are appropriate for individual students.

6. Behavioral Interventions: Given their expertise in behavior assessment and intervention, school psychologists can develop and implement behavior intervention plans for students who require additional support in managing their behavior.

7. Providing Professional Development: School psychologists may offer training and professional development to educators on topics related to assessment, intervention strategies, and understanding the needs of diverse learners.

8. Advocating for Students: They advocate for the needs of students who may require special education services or additional support beyond the RTI process.

9. Crisis Intervention and Support: School psychologists are often involved in crisis intervention and providing support to students who may be experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges.

10. Documentation and Reporting: They maintain detailed records of assessments, interventions, and progress monitoring data. This documentation is important for tracking the effectiveness of interventions and making data-driven decisions.

11. Participation in IEP Process: If a student progresses to Tier 3 and is referred for special education services, the school psychologist may be involved in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process, providing valuable input on the student's needs and appropriate accommodations.

Overall, school psychologists bring specialized knowledge and skills to the RTI process, helping to ensure that interventions are tailored to the unique needs of each student and that progress is monitored effectively.

Progress Monitoring

Progress monitoring is a critical component of the Response to Intervention (RTI) or Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. School psychologists will often play a key role in designing, implementing, and analyzing progress monitoring data for various tiers of intervention. Here are some tips for effective progress monitoring:

1. Select Appropriate Measures

Choose assessment tools that are reliable, valid, and aligned with the specific goals and objectives of the intervention. Consider both standardized measures and curriculum-based assessments.

2. Establish Clear Objectives

Clearly define the specific skills or behaviors you are monitoring. This provides a clear target for the intervention and allows for more accurate assessment of progress.

3. Set Realistic and Specific Goals

Establish specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for each student. These goals should be based on the student's baseline performance and the expected rate of progress.

4. Frequent and Consistent Monitoring

Monitor progress regularly to capture trends and changes over time. The frequency of monitoring will depend on the nature of the intervention and the needs of the student.

5. Maintain Detailed Records

Keep thorough and organized records of progress monitoring data. This includes baseline data, ongoing progress data, and any adjustments made to the intervention.

6. Graph and Visualize Data

Use graphs and visual displays to track and communicate progress. Graphs make it easier to identify trends, patterns, and any deviations from expected progress.

7. Interpret Data Meaningfully

Analyze the data to determine if the student is making sufficient progress. Consider factors such as the rate of improvement, the consistency of progress, and any external factors that may be influencing performance.

8. Communicate Findings Effectively

Share progress monitoring results with relevant stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and other members of the RTI or MTSS team. Clearly communicate the student's progress and any adjustments to interventions.

9. Make Data-Driven Decisions

Use progress monitoring data to inform decisions about the continuation, modification, or adjustment of interventions. If a student is not making adequate progress, consider alternative strategies or interventions.

Remember that progress monitoring is an ongoing process that involves regular assessment, analysis, and adjustment. It is a collaborative effort that requires effective communication and teamwork among all members of the RTI or MTSS team.