The information and advice provided are for guidance purposes only, and all participants are required to follow federal and state law and their school district guidelines and policies.
Welcome, everyone, to this episode of our podcast. Today, we're honored to introduce Jessica Shearin, a nationally certified school psychologist currently serving in the Clark County School District. With a diverse background from the University of Missouri Columbia, Jessica's professional interests span social and racial justice, neurodiversity affirming practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and more.
Jessica's journey in Clark County has seen her take on various roles, from mentor and practicum supervisor to the current president of the Nevada Association of School Psychologists. In our conversation, Jessica shares insights into her experiences and offers valuable advice for fellow school psychologists.
Passion for Advocacy and Education
Jessica's dedication to advocacy shines through as she discusses her involvement in creating pathways for aspiring school psychologists. From advocating for funding in higher education to promoting awareness and interest in the field, Jessica emphasizes the importance of investing in the community's future.
Leadership and Building Relationships
Reflecting on her leadership role, Jessica stresses the significance of leading by example and fostering genuine connections. Whether it's leading an RTI team or serving as state president, she highlights the power of empathy and action in gaining trust and cooperation.
Navigating Time Management and Self-Care
Balancing professional commitments can be daunting, but Jessica's approach to time management offers practical insights. By scheduling tasks, prioritizing, and allowing time for self-care, she ensures effectiveness while preventing burnout—a lesson valuable for all school psychologists.
A Call for Collaboration and Growth
Jessica's vision for the future involves collaboration and growth, both within and beyond state borders. Through professional development initiatives and social media engagement, she aims to create inclusive spaces where school psychologists can thrive and learn from each other.
Preparedness through Strategic Thinking
When it comes to feeling prepared, Jessica advocates for breaking tasks into manageable steps and trusting in one's abilities. By embracing strategic thinking and leveraging to-do lists, school psychologists can navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
As our conversation comes to a close, Jessica leaves us with a sense of inspiration and purpose. Her journey exemplifies the transformative impact school psychologists can have when they combine passion with action, advocacy with empathy.
In the world of school psychology, leadership and advocacy play vital roles in shaping the educational landscape. Through Jessica's story, we're reminded of the power of collaboration, the importance of self-care, and the value of perseverance in the pursuit of meaningful change. Thank you, Jessica, for sharing your wisdom and insights with us today.
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