Boston Public Schools Behavioral Health Services is home to more than 100 school psychologists and a graduate training community of more than 50 practicum students, interns, and fellows. This fall, colleagues from across the department gathered to celebrate National School Psychology Week 2026, and this year's national theme, Inspire Connection, could not have been a better fit.
We were honored to welcome special guests, including Superintendent Mary Skipper and community partners, among them university professors. Several speakers reflected on what stands out whenever they spend time with this department: genuine joy, real enthusiasm for the work, and a culture where colleagues lift one another up.
Just as meaningful were the moments in between: catching up with colleagues from other schools, recognizing one another's work, and sharing an appreciation for what school psychologists do every day for Boston's students and families. Staff shout-out prizes and a table set aside for our university students added to the fun.
Celebrating two of our own
The gathering also honored Laura Shachmut, named the Massachusetts School Psychologists Association's 2027 School Psychologist of the Year, and Ann Canavan, who received MSPA's 2027 Lifetime Achievement Award. Superintendent Skipper joined in recognizing them in front of their colleagues. Read about their MSPA honors.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to our school psychologists for the care, skill, and heart they bring to Boston's schools every day.
