RI H7335

Creates a new "licensed school psychologist" credential through the Department of Health, requiring an advanced graduate degree in school psychology (minimum 60 credits), 3 years/3,600 hours of postgraduate supervised experience, passing the ETS School Psychology Examination, and National Certified School Psychologist credentials

Authorizes licensed school psychologists to practice independently outside of school settings, including conducting psychoeducational evaluations, diagnosing psychological disorders related to academic learning, administering diagnostic tests, and providing counseling to individuals, groups, and families

Establishes a grant program through the Department of Education to fund school psychologist graduate preparation programs, fill faculty vacancies, place interns in high-needs districts with living wage stipends, and forgive student loans after 5 years of employment in high-needs districts

Addresses Rhode Island's school psychologist shortage, citing a current ratio of 763:1 statewide (1,000:1 in urban districts) compared to the recommended national standard of 500:1

Requires the Department of Education to annually collect and report data on school psychologist employment (full-time, part-time, contract) to identify high-needs districts and inform funding decisions