Boston School Psychs Podcast

timothy.mcivor

Welcome to the Boston School Psychs Podcast! These conversations with Boston school psychologists highlight the people, practices, and partnerships that strengthen behavioral health and promote student well-being across Boston Public Schools and beyond. Each episode explores how school psychologists and community partners are working together to create safe, supportive, and thriving learning environments for every student.

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 23: More Than Saving Time: The Real Impact of AI in School Psychology

    In this episode of the Boston School Psychs Podcast, Dr. Andria Amador, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services at Boston Public Schools, and Tim McIvor are joined by Dr. Byron McClure, Founder and CEO of School Psych AI, for a conversation about the growing role of artificial intelligence in school psychology, the lessons learned from real-world implementation, and how AI can help school psychologists provide more comprehensive services to students. Dr. McClure and Dr. Amador reflect on the ongoing partnership between Boston Public Schools and School Psych AI, sharing findings from more than a year of implementation, professional development, and staff feedback. The conversation explores how school psychologists have become more confident and proficient in using AI, with an estimated two to three hours saved per evaluation case. They also discuss the importance of sustained training, opportunities for collaboration, and developing the skills needed to use AI effectively and responsibly. The episode takes a closer look at how AI can support school psychologists beyond traditional tasks such as report writing and administrative paperwork. Dr. Amador shares examples from Boston Public Schools, including developing culturally responsive, multilingual interventions, creating more efficient systems for professional evaluations, and using AI to strengthen the quality, accessibility, and strengths-based language of psychological reports. Dr. McClure offers practical strategies for moving beyond basic AI applications and using the technology more creatively to support counseling, consultation, intervention planning, and other aspects of comprehensive school psychological services. The discussion also addresses ethical considerations surrounding AI, including student privacy, confidentiality, bias, professional judgment, and the importance of maintaining human oversight. Dr. McClure and Dr. Amador emphasize that successful implementation requires more than access to technology. It involves thoughtful planning, clear guidelines, ongoing professional development, and a commitment to ensuring that AI supports rather than replaces the expertise of school psychologists. Throughout the conversation, one central message emerges: the true value of AI is not simply the time it saves, but what school psychologists can accomplish with that time. By improving efficiency, strengthening the quality of their work, and creating opportunities to expand their role, AI has the potential to help practitioners deliver more culturally responsive, comprehensive, and meaningful services to students and families. Whether you are a school psychologist beginning to explore AI, an experienced practitioner looking to expand your skills, or a school leader considering districtwide implementation, this episode offers practical strategies, real-world examples, and valuable insights into how artificial intelligence can help shape the future of school psychology.

  2. Oct 21

    Episode 22: From Practicum to Practice: Preparing the Next Generation of School Psychologists

    In this episode of the Boston School Psychs Podcast, Tim McIvor is joined by Sarah Hayden, a school psychologist with Boston Public Schools, and Carly Mattice, a second-year practicum student at Tufts University, for a conversation about professional growth, mentorship, and preparing the next generation of school psychologists. Sarah and Carly share their perspectives on the realities of school psychology, exploring how the profession extends far beyond assessments, report writing, and special education evaluations. From classroom-based social-emotional learning and small-group interventions to individual counseling and behavioral support, they discuss the diverse responsibilities of school psychologists and how hands-on training helps graduate students develop the skills needed to support students effectively. The conversation also explores imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and the challenges of building confidence as a developing practitioner. Sarah reflects on her own professional growth and the lessons she has learned throughout her career, while Carly shares how her practicum experiences have helped her become more independent, recognize her strengths, and navigate the uncertainties that come with learning a complex profession. A central theme of the episode is the importance of effective supervision and mentorship. Sarah discusses how supervisors can balance encouragement, constructive feedback, and increasing independence to help graduate students grow professionally. Carly offers her perspective on the value of supportive supervision, asking questions, learning from mistakes, and embracing opportunities to step outside her comfort zone. Looking ahead, the discussion considers the future of school psychology and how the next generation of practitioners can continue advancing the profession by embracing strengths-based practices, expanding their role, and committing to continuous learning. Sarah and Carly also emphasize the importance of meaningful relationships, collaboration, and recognizing the positive impact school psychologists can have on students throughout their careers. Whether you are a graduate student, early career school psychologist, experienced practitioner, or supervisor, this episode offers practical advice, relatable experiences, and valuable insights into building confidence, developing professional skills, and preparing for a rewarding career in school psychology.

  3. Oct 7

    Episode 21: The Power of Prevention: Transforming School Mental Health

    In this episode of the Boston School Psychs Podcast, Dr. Andria Amador and Tim McIvor are joined by Dr. Melissa Pearrow, Professor at UMass Boston and Executive Director of the BIRCh Center, for a conversation about prevention, comprehensive school mental health, and creating systems that allow school psychologists to have a broader impact. Dr. Pearrow reflects on her path from special education teacher to school psychologist, professor, researcher, and systems-level advocate, and how continually asking “why” has shaped her work. The conversation explores the NASP Practice Model and the organizational conditions needed for school psychologists to practice comprehensively, including leadership, professional development, supervision, consultation, resources, and supportive school climates. The episode also takes a closer look at universal behavioral health screening and the importance of identifying students before they reach a point of crisis. Dr. Pearrow explains how screening can help identify students with internalizing concerns who may otherwise be overlooked, while Dr. Amador shares how Boston Public Schools screens more than 36,000 students each year and uses longitudinal data to guide interventions, advocate for resources, and strengthen supports across schools. The discussion also addresses culturally responsive practice, workforce diversity, family partnerships, technology, and the future of school psychology. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Pearrow and Dr. Amador emphasize curiosity, collaboration, continuous learning, and the importance of stepping up when you see an opportunity to improve systems for students. Whether you are a graduate student, early career school psychologist, experienced practitioner, or school leader, this episode offers practical insights into how prevention and systems-level change can help schools better support the mental health and well-being of every student.

  4. Jul 1

    Episode 20: Equity in Action: A Conversation with the Equity Committee

    This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we are joined by Annastasia Martineau and Dr. Carolyn Hall, co-chairs of the BHS Equity Committee, for a conversation about how Boston Public Schools is using distributed leadership to support equity-focused systems change. Annastasia and Carolyn share how the Equity Committee brings school psychologists together to reflect, problem-solve, and take action around issues impacting students, families, and school communities. The discussion highlights the committee’s monthly structure, its opt-in model for staff participation, and its role in shaping job-embedded professional development, department-wide learning, and book studies. The episode explores several areas of the committee’s work, including immigration law, calling-in and calling-out culture, equitable assessment, LGBTQ+ inclusive practices, multilingual family engagement, and culturally responsive interview procedures. Annastasia and Carolyn also discuss the importance of moving from theory to “equity in action” by identifying practical steps school psychologists can take within counseling, assessment, consultation, and family interviews. Listeners will hear examples of the committee’s impact, including collaboration with the multilingual committee, school-based equity response teams, “Know Your Rights” presentations for families and staff, and efforts connected to the NASP Exposure Project to increase diversity in the field of school psychology. Finally, the conversation looks ahead to the committee’s future goals, including increasing participation, centering student and family voices, expanding school-level equity work, and sharing resources more broadly across the district. Whether you are a school psychologist, graduate student, educator, or district leader, this episode offers practical insight into how equity-focused leadership can become part of everyday school psychology practice.

  5. Jun 17

    Episode 19: Leadership Spotlight: A Conversation with Laura Shachmut

    This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we are joined by Laura Shachmut, a school psychologist with Boston Public Schools, for a conversation about leadership, systems-level practice, and the evolving role of school psychologists in supporting students and school communities. Laura shares her professional journey, reflecting on the experiences that shaped her career and her passion for creating positive, student-centered learning environments. The discussion explores the many ways school psychologists can influence school systems beyond individual evaluations and counseling services. Laura highlights the importance of prevention, consultation, PBIS, and school-wide initiatives that promote positive outcomes for all students. She shares insights into how school psychologists can contribute to school climate, strengthen collaboration among educators, and support equitable practices that help students thrive. Throughout the episode, Laura discusses the value of leadership at every level of practice. She reflects on her work supporting district initiatives, mentoring future school psychologists, and helping build systems that foster student success. The conversation emphasizes that leadership is not limited to formal titles but can be demonstrated through collaboration, relationship-building, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Laura also discusses her role as chair of the Behavioral Health Services Communications Committee within Boston Public Schools. She shares how intentional communication helps strengthen professional identity, highlight the impact of school psychologists, and foster greater connection across a large and diverse department. The conversation examines how effective communication can support advocacy efforts and help school psychologists tell the story of their work in meaningful ways. Tim and Laura also reflect on the importance of graduate training, professional growth, and developing the next generation of school psychologists. They discuss the rewards and challenges of the profession, the lessons learned throughout a career in education, and the importance of maintaining a focus on student outcomes while navigating increasingly complex school systems. Whether you are a graduate student, early-career professional, or experienced practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights into leadership, collaboration, systems-level practice, and the many ways school psychologists can create meaningful change for students, families, and school communities.

  6. Jun 3

    Episode 18: Leadership Spotlight: A Conversation with Dr. Andria Amador

    This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Andria Amador, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services for Boston Public Schools, for an in-depth conversation about comprehensive school psychological services and the systems that support student success. Drawing on her leadership experience in one of the largest school districts in the country, Dr. Amador shares how Boston Public Schools has expanded and redefined the role of school psychologists to better meet the academic, behavioral, social, and emotional needs of students. The discussion explores the structure and vision of the Behavioral Health Services Department and the many ways school psychologists contribute beyond assessment. Dr. Amador describes how school psychologists in Boston Public Schools provide counseling, consultation, crisis response, prevention services, systems-level support, and leadership within schools. She explains how the district has worked to align services with the NASP Practice Model while building a framework that supports both students and practitioners. Tim and Dr. Amador also discuss the importance of prevention and early intervention in creating healthy school communities. The conversation highlights the role of multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS), Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and other school-wide initiatives designed to improve outcomes for all students. Listeners will gain insight into how comprehensive services can strengthen school climate, increase access to mental health supports, and promote student well-being. A major focus of the episode is workforce development and the future of the profession. Dr. Amador shares how partnerships with universities, training programs, and community organizations have helped Boston Public Schools recruit, train, and retain highly qualified school psychologists. She discusses the value of creating strong internship experiences, supporting early career professionals, and building leadership pathways within the field. Throughout the episode, Dr. Amador emphasizes the importance of collaboration and systems thinking in school psychology. Real-world examples illustrate how school psychologists can partner with educators, families, administrators, and community providers to address complex student needs and improve outcomes at both the individual and systems levels. Whether you are a graduate student exploring the profession, an early career school psychologist seeking guidance, or an experienced practitioner interested in comprehensive service delivery, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving role of school psychologists and the impact they can have within schools and communities.

  7. May 20

    Episode 17: Leadership Spotlight: A Conversation with Dr. Carolyn Hall

    This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Carolyn Hall for an engaging conversation on leadership, school psychology practice, and the systems-level work that helps create meaningful change for students and school communities. Dr. Hall shares her professional journey into school psychology, reflecting on the experiences that shaped her path from work in adult psychiatric settings to her leadership role supporting school-based behavioral health initiatives within Boston Public Schools. The discussion explores the evolving role of school psychologists and the importance of developing systems that promote academic, behavioral, and social-emotional success for all students. Dr. Hall shares perspectives on how school psychologists can expand their impact beyond traditional responsibilities by engaging in consultation, prevention efforts, and collaborative problem solving. Tim and Dr. Hall discuss the importance of creating sustainable systems that support student needs while strengthening school teams and improving outcomes across entire school communities. Listeners will also gain insight into the role of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), evidence-based interventions, and data-based decision making in school practice. Dr. Hall discusses how school psychologists can contribute to identifying student needs, monitoring progress, and implementing supports that lead to meaningful academic and behavioral growth. The conversation highlights how school psychologists can play a critical role in strengthening school systems while helping ensure that interventions remain practical, equitable, and effective. The episode also emphasizes leadership and advocacy as essential components of school psychology practice. Dr. Hall shares reflections on stepping into leadership opportunities, building confidence, and recognizing that meaningful change often begins with small actions and relationships. Real-world examples demonstrate how collaboration with educators, administrators, families, and community partners can strengthen services and increase support for students. Finally, the conversation reinforces an important message for the field: leadership is not limited to formal titles. School psychologists at every stage of their career can influence systems, advocate for students, and create lasting change within their schools and communities. Whether you are a graduate student, early career professional, or experienced practitioner, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration to help you expand your impact.

  8. Apr 29

    Episode 16: Project Provide: Strengthening the Future of School Mental Health

    This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Jennifer Greif Green of Boston University and Cynthia Lê of Boston Public Schools for an in-depth conversation on Project Provide, a federally funded initiative designed to strengthen the school mental health workforce. Together, they share how this multi-million dollar grant is supporting the recruitment, training, mentorship, and retention of school psychologists, school counselors, and school social workers across the district. The discussion explores how Project Provide was developed through strong collaboration between Boston Public Schools, local universities, and community partners. Dr. Green and Cynthia explain how these partnerships create meaningful, paid internship opportunities that allow graduate students to fully engage in their training without the added burden of outside employment. They also highlight the program’s dual focus on both recruitment and retention, including structured mentorship models and ongoing professional development to support current staff. Listeners will gain insight into how data-based decision making and continuous feedback have shaped the program over time. The conversation highlights how improvements across cohorts have been driven by intentional adjustments, strong evaluation practices, and a commitment to using participant feedback to refine systems and supports. This emphasis on continuous improvement has contributed to increased satisfaction and stronger outcomes for those involved in the program. The episode also dives into the broader impact of workforce development in school mental health. Dr. Green and Cynthia discuss the importance of investing in training pipelines, building sustainable systems, and creating environments where professionals feel supported and valued. They share how these efforts ultimately expand access to services and improve outcomes for students and families. Finally, the conversation highlights what keeps them hopeful in a time of growing mental health needs in schools. From a renewed national focus on youth mental health to the power of relationships and shared mission, this episode underscores the importance of collaboration and long-term investment in the field. Whether you are a graduate student, early career professional, district leader, or experienced practitioner, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration for strengthening school mental health systems in your own community.

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Welcome to the Boston School Psychs Podcast! These conversations with Boston school psychologists highlight the people, practices, and partnerships that strengthen behavioral health and promote student well-being across Boston Public Schools and beyond. Each episode explores how school psychologists and community partners are working together to create safe, supportive, and thriving learning environments for every student.

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