Policy Matters Blog
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Thank You, NASP Advocates!
For many school psychologists, this past year has been stressful. Collectively, we are still addressing academic needs impacted by COVID-19 related instructional loss. We are dealing with an unprecedented youth mental health crisis exacerbated by the lack of access to school psychologists and other mental health professionals. Gun violence continues to be the number one cause of death for young people. Incidents of antisemitism, Islamophobia, and anti-Arab racism are on the rise. There are increasing attempts to stifle efforts that dismantle systemic racism and advance equity. Public education itself is under attack, and efforts to censor inclusive curricula and books, limit access to school-based services, and restrict the rights of LGBTQ+ youth continue to rise.
Yet, despite these challenges, there is a lot to be thankful for! Every day, you continue to show up for the students and families you serve. You are helping schools create climates that are safe and supportive for all students. You are conducting culturally responsive, comprehensive evaluations to support students suspected of having a disability. You are providing direct and indirect services to students to help address their academic, social-emotional, and mental and behavioral health needs. You are leading problem-solving teams to ensure evidence-based decision making. The list is endless, but in short, you are making a positive difference for children.
Even with these incredible demands on your time, you have continued to raise your voice to advocate for children, youth, and the profession at the local, state, and federal levels. Since the beginning of the year, #NASPadvocates have sent over 3,300 letters to elected officials asking to address the critical shortages, fund public education, and support children and youth, and you have responded to countless local, state, and national calls for advocacy. You continue to speak up for the importance of equity in education and fight for the policies that dismantle discriminatory practices and promote improved outcomes for all students and that are continuing to highlight the value of school psychologists and school psychological services. It is impossible to list every action, but please know that your voice is truly making a difference.
Policy makers also notice the work you are doing, both as advocates and as public servants in our schools and communities. Several of them shared their gratitude for school psychologists a couple weeks ago for NSPW, including Education Secretary Miguel Cardona.
To be sure, our fight is not over. We have some important federal policy challenges to address over the next few months. But, when school psychologists speak, policy makers listen. Thank you for all you do!