BISMARCK, N.D. (NASP) – The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has designated November 6–10, 2023, to be National School Psychology Week (NSPW), with the theme “Let’s Grow Together.”

Schools around the country will highlight the role of school psychologists and school-based mental health services in promoting student success. The North Dakota Association of School Psychologists is sponsoring a variety of activities this week including daily posts and challenges for their members.

School psychologists’ partner with families, teachers, school administrators, and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments that strengthen connections between home, school, and
the community. They apply expertise in mental health, learning, and behavior to help children and youth succeed socially, behaviorally, emotionally, and academically. They are also important members of school safety and crisis teams. As stated by Dr. Andrea Clyne, President of the National Association of School Psychologists, “School psychologists bring a rich and unique set of skills to their school communities. They are champions for children, families, and schools, working hard to apply their knowledge about mental health, learning, equity, and systems to address challenges that thwart progress.”

This year’s NSPW theme, “Let’s Grow Together,” is inspired by the importance of both personal and shared strengths in our growth, as individuals and school communities, in every season of life. The theme recognizes
four aspects of growth that are fundamental to effective learning environments and to school psychologists’ role
in supporting student well-being and learning. First, individuals grow in their way, often in their own time, a process influenced through engagement and interaction with their surroundings. Second, engagement and interaction with others—being part of a vibrant community—supports growth. Third, diversity is a powerful ingredient in our growth. Lastly, every season, including those focused on rest and rejuvenation, contributes to a continuum of growth.

Dr. Clyne adds, “I love having this week to celebrate school psychologists and recognize that, amid the many challenges that exist in our world, they continue to show up for kids, collaborating with parents and educators
to help schools to be effective, equitable, affirming, and inspiring. I hope that school psychologists can take this
week to reflect on how many lives are made better by their expertise and dedication.”