About
School Psychologists
School psychology focuses on understanding how students learn, behave, and experience school within educational settings. It considers academic, behavioral, and social-emotional factors, as well as the role of the classroom, school environment, and family context in student success.
School psychologists work as part of school-based teams to help schools make informed decisions. Their work spans assessment, intervention planning, collaboration, and student well-being, all within the structure of educational systems. The sections below describe these areas of practice in more detail.
ASSESSMENT & EDUCATIONAL DECISION-MAKING
Assessment in schools is used to understand how a student learns and functions in academic and behavioral settings. School psychologists help review multiple sources of information to guide decisions related to eligibility, accommodations, and educational planning.
Rather than relying on a single measure, this process considers patterns over time to help schools better understand a student’s strengths and areas of need.
INSTRUCTION, INTERVENTION, & MONITORING
Schools use a range of instructional and behavioral strategies to support students. School psychologists assist teams in selecting appropriate supports, monitoring progress, and reviewing whether interventions are effective.
Ongoing monitoring helps schools determine what is working, what may need adjustment, and whether additional support should be considered.
COLLABORATION WITH FAMILIES & SCHOOL TEAMS
Supporting students is a shared responsibility. School psychologists help facilitate communication among families, teachers, administrators, and other school professionals to promote shared understanding and coordinated planning.
Clear collaboration helps ensure that decisions are thoughtful, transparent, and focused on student growth.
STUDENT WELL-BEING IN EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS
Student success is closely connected to well-being. School psychologists support schools in addressing social-emotional needs, promoting safe and supportive learning environments, and responding thoughtfully during challenging situations.
This work is integrated into everyday school systems and emphasizes prevention, early support, and connection to appropriate resources when needed.
About the Creator
This site was created by Yesenia Cedillo, a school psychologist with extensive experience working within public school systems. Over the past decade, she has served in multiple school-based roles, gaining a deep understanding of educational systems, student needs, and family–school collaboration.
She holds both a Master of Arts (MA) degree and an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in School Psychology from Alliant International University, along with a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential in School Psychology. Her Education Specialist training included an emphasis on school-based mental health, preparing her to support students’ academic, behavioral, and social-emotional needs within educational systems. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Educational Studies from the University of La Verne, as well as associate degrees, which contribute to a practical understanding of instructional practices, educational systems, and organizational decision-making.
Throughout her career in public education, Yesenia has been recognized for her commitment, leadership, and willingness to go above and beyond in service of students, families, and school communities. Her work as a school psychologist emphasizes thoughtful decision-making, collaboration, and data-informed practices grounded in real-world school contexts.