Traditional School Year Begins!

Those of you on year-round schedules may not be feeling the tingles at this point, but many of us who work on the traditional calendar are gearing up for another exciting school year. As the school supplies are getting organized and packed up, and this school year's trendy outfits are filling closets at home, and as families prepare to send their children to schools across the state-- school psychologists have other things on their minds in addition to supplies and fashion. We're thinking about how to better manage our time this year, how to find some way to do some mental health work amidst all the special education referrals, thinking about ways to help our schools implement RTI, and, once again, looking forward to the exciting changes occurring in our profession.

As you take some time before the students return-- or if you are on a year-round schedule, take some time when you have it--- think about ways that you can advocate for our roles in the schools. Think about any changes you would like to see happen in your schools. Would you like a greater role in developing interventions? Would you like to make yourself available for workshops and in-services to help educate your school staff on behavior management, RTI, various presentations of mood disorders....? How would you go about trying to change how things have been done in the past? Would it be appropriate to sit down with your principal and propose changes? Maybe a meeting with specific teachers? Do you need to compile some data and reading to distribute, to get staff excited about a topic? Would a needs survey help give you an idea of what your school may require your help in? How about district-level change? All school districts are different. Do you know who to talk to if you see an area that needs attention? Is change possible in that area? Who holds the power and control to make change happen? Have you developed a relationship with that person? Remember to check the Legislative/Public Policy link on the NCSPA website to get resources to help you advocate for yourself, your profession, and the children you work for.

Speaking of relationships- remember, it is always good practice to keep in touch with your legislators so that they know you are available for questions regarding psychology in the schools. Let them know what that means. Remind them of what you do. A link to the NC General Assembly web page is in the left column of this blog.

We are still working on the 5% and 10% raises. The more our legislators know about us, and the more they understand the vital role we play in the schools, the more likely it is that they will advocate for our professions. They would be happy to hear from you. Email, written letters and phone calls are all appropriate ways to contact your legislator.

We look forward to seeing you all at the Fall Conference in Charlotte. The Legislative and Public Policy Committee will be featuring Teresa Smith of DPI as a speaker. Teresa will be giving an informative report on the latest news impacting the work of Student Support Services personnel on Monday, October 6th, 1:45- 3:15 PM. She is a very good speaker, and you are sure to enjoy spending time with her!

Last, but not least, a great big CONGRATULATIONS to Carol Vatz, who retired from Wake County Public School System this year!!! She has been an incredibly valuable staff member with a mental library of knowledge and a great talent for sharing it. Her contributions in working with colleagues and students, as well as advocating for our profession and children will be remembered and frequently referenced as we ponder: "What Would Carol Do?" The chartreuse rubber bracelets with the reminder "WWCD" will be distributed for a $100. donation to the Carol V. Retirement Fund at the Fall Conference. (just kidding)

Please feel free to contact Chris Tufts ctufts@wcpss.net, or Carol Vatz bcvatz@gmail.com, if you have any questions or input regarding Legislative and Public Policy work for NCSPA.