Virginia Governor Ralph S. Northam

WHEREAS, all children and youth can learn with the proper supports, and have the inalienable right to an education that meets their needs; and

WHEREAS, sound psychological principles are integral to instruction and learning, social and emotional development, prevention and early intervention, and supporting culturally diverse student populations; and

WHEREAS, children’s mental health and resilience are directly linked to their learning and development; and

WHEREAS, schools provide an optimal context to promote resilience and strong mental health in children and youth because of the nature of the learning environment and the availability of trained, caring professionals; and

WHEREAS, school psychologists are specially trained to deliver a continuum of mental health services and academic support that promote children’s resilience, competence, and well-being within the school setting; and

WHEREAS, school psychologists facilitate collaboration and help parents and educators identify and reduce risk factors; promote protective factors; create safe, healthy, effective, and supportive learning environments; access needed community resources; and implement research-driven prevention and intervention strategies; and

WHEREAS, school psychologists acknowledge the trauma caused by racial injustice and are poised to promote equity, healing, support, and positive steps for all; and

WHEREAS, citizens of Virginia should recognize the vital role that school psychologists play in the personal and academic development of our Commonwealth’s children;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Ralph S. Northam, do hereby recognize November 9-13, 2020, as SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY AWARENESS WEEK in our COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.