Who Are School Psychologists?
School Psychologists support students, schools, families and communities by providing services aligned with the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Practice Model. School Psychologist’s training in both educational systems and child development results in unique expertise for solving problems at the district, school, classroom and individual student levels. School Psychologists work to identify and address barriers to learning by working directly with students and through collaboration with teachers, administrators, and parents.
School Psychology Landscape in Wisconsin
The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) recommends a ratio of 1 School Psychologist per 500 students (2020 NASP Professional Standards):
- Wisconsin 2023-2024 Ratio of School Psychologists to Students: 1:772
- Percent of Wisconsin Public School Districts with a School Psychologist (2023-2024): 82%
School Psychologists play a critical role in supporting students’ social-emotional well-being and academic success. However, 18% of school districts in Wisconsin did not have a School Psychologist during the 2023-2024 school year. But there has been progress. In 2017-2018, the ratio was 1:997. The current 1:772 ratio represents a 20.1% improvement, meaning more students have access to the support they need.
Wisconsin is moving in the right direction, but more School Psychologists are needed!
Interested in becoming a School Psychologist in Wisconsin? Click the links below to learn more!
Connect with DPI’s School Psychology Consultant
The School Psychology Consultant’s role on the Student Services, Prevention and Wellness (SSPW) team includes the provision of expert leadership, consultation, technical assistance, professional development, and training activities to LEAs, state and local agencies, parents and families, school psychology graduate training programs, professional organizations, and interest groups regarding school psychology. School psychologists play a variety of roles within an Equitable Multi-Level System of Supports (MLSS). The DPI School Psychology Consultant is available for consultation and technical assistance on topics including but not limited to Social Emotional Learning, implementation of special education programs and initiatives, Comprehensive Special Education Evaluations, Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), student mental and behavioral health, crisis prevention and intervention, seclusion and physical restraint, suicide prevention, bullying, and student discipline.
Schedule a 15 minute School Psychology Consultation.