School Psychologists’ Role Concerning Children With Chronic Illnesses in Schools

Childhood Leukemia Survivors and Their Return to School: A Literature Review, Case Study, and Recommendations

“…Moreover, recent literature has documented that practicing school psychologists are interested in receiving more specialized training devoted to pediatric chronic illnesses (Barraclough & Machek, 2010), and recent models have been developed to assist school psychologists in their efforts to reintegrate and assist child and adolescent cancer survivors within the school environment (Harris, 2009). In light of the emerging trend toward the optimization of school-based services for childhood cancer survivors, we offer the following literature review, case study, and best practice recommendations for school psychologists interested in expanding and refining their ability to provide such services in this area.…”

Commentary on “Childhood Leukemia Survivors and Their Return to School: A Literature Review, Case Study, and Recommendations”

“…In line with RTI processes, the consultation, intervention, and progress monitoring skills of school psychologists may be applied to the school reentry of children. As such, school psychologists can take a greater role in the assessment and treatment of children with chronic illnesses in the schools (Barraclough & Machek, 2010). Although psychopathology is uncommon, children with cancer are known to have adjustment problems related to their diagnosis, treatment, and return to school (Cruce & Stinnett, 2006;Vannatta & Gerhardt, 2003).…”

“…However, many Commentary on D.S. Hermann et al 277 school psychologists-and teachers-believe they lack the knowledge and training to perform these important functions (Barraclough & Machek, 2010;Mukherjee, Lightfoot, & Sloper, 2000;Wodrich & Spencer, 2007). In light of our ethical obligation to engage in continuing education, one way to address this gap in knowledge is by familiarizing oneself with the extant literature and reviewing illustrative case studies.…”

“…have answered the call from experts and practitioners to provide school psychologists with disease-specific information and recommendations that may be tailored to individual students with a chronic illness (Barraclough & Machek, 2010;McCabe & Shaw, 2010;Phelps, 2006Phelps, , 2010. Such practical information is critical for school psychologists who have increasing contact with children with chronic illnesses as medical advances and an evolving healthcare system have resulted in decreased mortality rates, shorter in-patient hospital stays, and greater use of outpatient treatment protocols (Shaw & McCabe, 2008).…”

Commentary on “Childhood Leukemia Survivors and Their Return to School: A Literature Review, Case Study, and Recommendations”

“…For instance, Barraclough and Machek (2010) found that school psychologists received little training in chronic illness and felt least qualified in dealing with medical emergencies and medication side effects. With a lack of knowledge about pediatric cancer and treatments, the school psychologist may feel unprepared or hesitant to provide staff trainings or consultation.…”