Empathy in Action: Dr. Sara Smith on Supporting Mental Health in APS
In celebration of
National School Psychology Week, we're diving into the impactful work of
Dr. Sara Smith, a dedicated school psychologist at
Vassar Elementary School. Dr. Smith’s journey—from studying social psychology to building a career focused on the mental well-being of students—is both inspiring and enlightening.
In this Q&A, Dr. Smith shares what led her to the profession, her passion for early intervention, advice she often shares with students, and more. Her words offer a glimpse into the world of difference a school psychologist can make in helping students grow emotionally and academically.
What inspired you to pursue a career in mental health?
I’ve always been fascinated by psychology, particularly how people influence each other through social interactions. I started my doctoral training in social psychology because it helped me understand the dynamics of group behavior, prejudice, and how our social environments and interactions shape our thoughts and actions. While studying, I had the opportunity to conduct research on the impact of prejudice, which really opened my eyes to how deep-seated biases can affect individuals and communities. This experience fueled my desire to do more applied work. I realized that mental health, and the way we support people's emotional and psychological well-being, could make a significant difference in people's lives, especially in communities that may not have easy access to mental health services. That was the turning point for me, leading me to pursue a career in school psychology where I could have a direct and lasting impact on children and youth.
What motivated you to work specifically with students and in a school setting?
After gaining a broader understanding of psychology, I realized that the school setting offered a unique opportunity to help students at a formative time in their lives—during their childhood and adolescent years. Schools are one of the few places where kids from all backgrounds come together, and there is so much potential to intervene early when students might be struggling emotionally, socially, or academically. I decided to specialize in school psychology because I could support not just individual students, but the broader school community, working with teachers, parents, and other professionals to create a positive, inclusive environment where all students can thrive. I believe that addressing students' mental health and emotional needs in the school setting allows them to fully engage in their learning, which has lifelong benefits.
What do you wish more people understood about school psychologists?
Many people still think of school psychologists primarily as individuals who administer assessments and tests for special education services, but our role is much broader than that. We are trained to address the social, emotional, and behavioral aspects of learning, which includes supporting students’ mental health and well-being, providing interventions, and helping to create a positive school culture. We often work as part of a collaborative team with educators, administrators, and parents to identify and address barriers to learning. I also wish people understood that school psychologists are advocates for prevention and early intervention. We are constantly working to enhance students' educational experiences, whether through individual counseling, group therapy, crisis intervention, or developing school-wide programs to support mental health. Our skill set is diverse, and we’re here to ensure that all students have the support they need to succeed, not just academically but emotionally as well.
When it comes to working with students, what brings you the most joy?
What brings me the most joy is how much kids surprise me every day with their unique personalities, kindness, and humor. No two students are the same, and I love that. They have this incredible capacity for growth, and it's so rewarding to see them make progress, whether it's overcoming a fear, learning a new skill, or simply becoming more confident in themselves. I also enjoy the variety in my work—the different students I get to work with, the diverse situations I encounter, and the opportunity to collaborate with so many other amazing professionals. Each day presents new challenges and moments of connection, and I never know what to expect, which keeps the work dynamic and exciting. Ultimately, what fills me with joy is knowing that I’m part of a larger system that is making a positive difference in the lives of children and youth.
What is a piece of advice you often give students?
A piece of advice I often give to students is to be kind to themselves and to embrace the process of learning and growing. Sometimes, students feel pressured to have everything figured out, but I remind them that it’s okay to not know everything and to not have all the answers right away. It’s all part of the journey. I tell them that setbacks are a natural part of learning and don’t define their abilities or worth. What matters most is how they respond to challenges: with resilience, a willingness to ask for help, and a belief that they are capable of improving, no matter what. I also encourage them to take time to celebrate the small victories along the way because growth happens in those moments, too.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
One thing I think is crucial to mention is how important it is for those of us in the helping professions, like school psychology, to prioritize our own mental health and wellness. This work can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be emotionally demanding, especially when you're deeply invested in the well-being of the students you serve. To bring my best self to my work each day, I make sure to take care of my physical and mental health. That includes carving out time for regular physical activity, ensuring I get enough sleep, and taking small breaks throughout the day which helps me stay emotionally balanced. I truly believe that to continue doing this important work and remain present for the students who need us, it’s vital to take care of ourselves first. Only then can we give our full attention and energy to helping others.
Here's to Dr. Smith and all our dedicated school psychologists in Aurora Public Schools! Your commitment to nurturing students’ mental and emotional health makes our schools a place where every child feels valued, supported, and ready to succeed. Thank you for all that you do!