Panetta, Bipartisan Colleagues Introduce Resolution Designating National School Psychology Week

Press Release

Today, U.S. Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-20), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), John Katko (NY-24), and Judy Chu (CA-27) introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize the week of November 8, 2021, as National School Psychology Week. This resolution seeks to honor the more than 35,000 practicing school psychologists in the United States for their work in providing a supportive and encouraging learning environment for all students. In the Senate, the resolution is led by Senator Alex Padilla (CA).

"School psychologists play an essential role in the learning and behavioral health needs of many of our students, especially as they continue to endure the difficulties of the pandemic," said Rep. Panetta. "This Congressional resolution recognizes school psychologists for what they do and for what they mean to so many of our children and their needs in and out of the classroom. This is the least that we can do as members of Congress and as parents of students to show our appreciation for the meaningful and impactful work of the thousands of school psychologists who live and work in our communities all across our country."

Mental health concerns amongst our children and youth has grown at an alarming rate during these turbulent times," said Monterey County Superintendent of School Deneen Guss. "I am so proud to honor our skilled school psychologists who are vigilantly assessing and serving students to ensure they have caring support to overcome challenges and valuable resources to remain healthy and focused on their academic success."

"Thank you to the more than 35,000 practicing school psychologists in the United States for the work they do, each and every day," said San Antonio Superindent of Schools Josh Van Norman. "Now, more than ever, our students need support and encouragement during these most challenging times. As school psychologists, you continue to rise to the occasion and meet the needs of our learners. For that, we thank you and celebrate the work you do."

School psychologists are often the first line of defense to ensure students receive the mental health services they need -- and offer significant support to teachers and districts, from providing resources to assisting with crisis response," said Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Faris Sabbah. "I applaud Congressman Panetta and his House colleagues for introducing this resolution to recognize the essential role school psychologists play in student success."

"School Psychologists play such an instrumental role in the well-being of students and staff," said San Benito Superintendent of Schools Krystal Lomanto. "The pandemic has had a traumatic effect on our students and staff and our School Psychologists continue to be essential in providing meaningful support to ensure the academic success and emotional well-being of our students."

"School psychologists work tirelessly to ensure our children are provided with the tools and resources they need to thrive, and they deserve our support," said Rep. Fitzpatrick. "I am proud to introduce this resolution alongside my bipartisan colleagues to recognize the vital role our school psychologists play in the success of students across the country."

"I'm proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution recognizing National School Psychology Week and all the incredible psychology professionals working in schools nationwide," said Rep. Katko. "As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Mental Health Caucus, I've made student mental health a priority. With so many kids still grappling with disruptions caused by the pandemic, it is so important that we expand access to mental healthcare and connect psychologists with students. I invite all of my colleagues to join me in taking this week to honor the incredible work school psychologists do every day."

"Mental healthcare is no less essential than physical healthcare. Yet, far too many mental health problems go undiagnosed and untreated because our schools lack the funding and staff needed to spot and address a problem early on. That is why school psychologists are so important, and why I am so proud to join this bipartisan resolution recognizing the difference they make every day in the academic, social, and emotional lives of students across the country," said Rep. Chu

"I am proud to recognize the vital role school psychologists play in creating safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments by designating National School Psychology Week," said Senator Padilla. "School psychologists help destigmatize mental health and provide all children an opportunity to receive mental health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, school psychologists have adapted to meet the new challenges facing students and families. We must continue to support mental health services that help children succeed in the classroom and beyond."

This resolution is supported by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), which represents more than 25,000 school psychologists who work with students, educators, and families to support the academic achievement, positive behavior, and mental wellness of all students, especially those who struggle with barriers to learning.

"After the challenges that our school communities have experienced over the last nineteen months, it is more important than ever that we recognize the critical role school psychologists play in supporting the success of our students, teachers, and school leaders. School psychologists are highly qualified educational professionals who support students' social, emotional, mental, and behavioral health, all of which impact their academic success. NASP applauds Congress' recognition of this important work, and we are eager to work with our partners on the Hill to address the workforce shortages that threaten school psychologists' ability to provide comprehensive care and supports to all students," said Dr. Laurie Klose, President of the National Association of School Psychologists.

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