What is a primary focus of psychological assessment in schools?

The primary focus of psychological assessment in schools is to understand student strengths and needs for better support. This aspect is vital in the educational setting, as it allows school psychologists to gather comprehensive insights into individual students. By identifying specific strengths, challenges, and needs, psychologists can provide targeted interventions and support that promote academic, social, and emotional development.

This understanding is essential for developing individualized educational plans and ensuring that students receive the appropriate resources and services to succeed. By focusing on student needs, school psychologists play a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment where each student can thrive. This emphasis on the individual needs of students distinguishes educational psychological assessments from other potential areas, such as evaluating teacher performance or gathering statistical data for administration, which do not directly focus on student development and support.