What is a primary goal of ethical practice for school psychologists?

Supporting and protecting students' rights is a fundamental goal of ethical practice for school psychologists. This principle underscores the importance of advocacy within educational settings. School psychologists are ethically obligated to consider the well-being, privacy, and individual needs of students, ensuring that their rights are respected. This includes being attentive to issues of equity, access to educational resources, and the psychological safety of students in the school environment.

The focus on students' rights also involves collaboration with parents, teachers, and other stakeholders to create supportive environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. By prioritizing the rights of students, school psychologists can promote an ethical framework that ensures decisions made in schools are beneficial to the individuals they serve.

In contrast, options that emphasize maximizing school performance exclusively, maintaining a strict professional distance, or concentrating solely on academic outcomes overlook the holistic approach needed in the practice of school psychology, which must encompass emotional and social development alongside academic success.