Can school psychologists share student information with parents?

Sharing student information with parents can indeed be a complex issue that revolves around ethical practices and the best interests of the student. When considering the context of sharing information, it is essential to recognize that the decision must align with the principles that prioritize the welfare and rights of the students.

The correct answer highlights that sharing information can occur when it is beneficial to students and aligns with ethical practices. This indicates that school psychologists have a responsibility to ensure that any disclosure of information is appropriate and aims to support the student’s educational environment, emotional health, and overall development. The ethical guidelines stress the importance of judgment in determining what information can be shared and in what context, ensuring that such actions promote the student's best interests.

In practice, this might include sharing assessment results or progress updates with parents when such information will help parents support their child's learning and development. Ethical practices also involve maintaining confidentiality and only sharing information that serves the purpose of enhancing the educational experience or safeguarding the child's well-being.

This approach reflects a balance between transparency with parents and the need for professional discretion, highlighting the ethical duty of school psychologists to act not only in a legally compliant manner but also in a way that benefits the student’s interests within the educational system.