PORTLAND (WGME) — With students returning to classrooms post-pandemic, Maine faces a significant rise in mental health issues among its youth. However, the number of school psychologists available to address these challenges is alarmingly low.
The National Association of School Psychologists recommends a ratio of one psychologist for every 500 students.
According to the Department of Education, northern Maine is the most affected by this shortage.
This scarcity means many schools can only offer basic evaluations for special education, neglecting the broader mental health needs of the general student population.
One significant factor contributing to the shortage is the pay disparity. School psychologists in neighboring states earn $10,000 to $20,000 more annually. However, compensation isn’t the only issue.
Maine also faces challenges in producing new school psychologists. Until recently, the only graduate program for school psychology at the University of Southern Maine required students to relocate to southern Maine, making it difficult for those from rural areas to participate.
A recent grant now enables students from rural areas to join the program remotely, with the hope that they will stay and serve their local communities.
The pressing need for school psychologists in northern Maine is a call to action for educational institutions and policymakers to find sustainable solutions to attract and retain qualified professionals in the field.