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North Gwinnett News

Sunday, November 24, 2024

Federal grant aids GCPS effort to reduce school psychologist shortage

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Dr. Mary Kay Murphy Board Member District III | Gwinnett County Public Schools

Dr. Mary Kay Murphy Board Member District III | Gwinnett County Public Schools

Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS), the Paulding County School District, and Georgia State University (GSU) have joined forces to tackle the shortage of school psychologists. Their efforts are supported by a $3.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Elementary and Secondary Education. This funding will be allocated to recruit, train, and support professionals from local communities for careers in school psychology.

Dr. Nicole White, GCPS' executive director of Special Education and Psychological Services, emphasized the increasing need for school psychologists due to heightened mental health needs following the pandemic. “Mental health needs have increased in post-pandemic years, and school psychologists are specially trained in mental health supports,” Dr. White explains. “They are a great asset to our schools in meeting the increasing mental health needs of students, and this initiative aligns with our district’s strategic plan in supporting the needs of the whole child.”

The grant aims to improve educational quality and support services within GCPS by ensuring students receive necessary care throughout their academic experience. The district's Special Education & Psychological Services team consists of culturally responsive professionals working across 142 schools to address diverse student needs.

Dr. White expressed optimism about the future outcomes of this partnership with GSU: “We have cultivated a great partnership with GSU over the years,” she explains. “We believe this is a great opportunity to not only continue our partnership but keep us competitive when recruiting interns and, ultimately, keeping us in the employment pipeline for their graduates.”

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