Which professional would be most likely to work with a child’s learning and behavioral needs and collaborate with teachers and parents?

• A. School counselor
• B. Pediatrician
• C. School psychologist
• D. Clinical psychologist

Answer: (C)

Understanding who coordinates assessment and supports for a child's learning and behavioral needs within the school helps identify the right professional. A school psychologist specializes in evaluating learning and behavior within the educational setting. They conduct psychoeducational assessments, observe classroom functioning, interpret results, and use this information to plan targeted interventions. They collaborate daily with teachers to adapt instruction and with parents to implement and monitor supports, including IEPs or 504 plans. This combination of testing expertise, behavior assessment, and strong collaboration with school staff and families makes them especially suited to address both academic and behavioral needs in the school context.

Other roles contribute in related ways: a school counselor provides social-emotional support and guidance and may coordinate programs, but their primary focus is not formal assessment and IEP planning. A pediatrician handles medical health and development and typically refers to specialists rather than implementing school-based learning plans. A clinical psychologist works in clinical settings to treat mental health concerns and is less integrated into the school system for ongoing collaboration with teachers on learning accommodations.