Access to qualified school psychologists is critical for students’ academic, social, and emotional success. Yet schools across Pennsylvania and the nation face severe shortages, leaving many students without timely access to essential services.

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) recommends one school psychologist for every 500 students, but the national average is nearly double that, with shortages especially pronounced in underserved areas.

This is why I will soon introduce legislation for Pennsylvania to join the Interstate Compact for School Psychologists. The Compact allows licensed school psychologists to obtain equivalent credentials and practice across member states, reducing barriers to licensure and expanding access to schools across the state. It also provides a pathway for military spouses to maintain their careers despite frequent relocations.

Key benefits include:

• Reduce licensure barriers and expand access to schools
• Address workforce shortages to ensure timely student support
• Preserve state authority while ensuring compliance with scope-of-practice laws
• Support military families in relocating without losing licensure

By joining this Compact, Pennsylvania strengthens its commitment to student mental health, improves access to high-quality school psychological services, and addresses critical workforce gaps. Seven states—Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Georgia, Kansas, Nebraska, and West Virginia—have already enacted legislation.
Please join me in co-sponsoring this important step to strengthen student mental health and support the workforce that delivers these essential services across Pennsylvania.