Community Engaged Learning

Students play ice hockey

Gonzaga’s School Psychology program aims to develop your skills through hands-on learning. While some of these experiences occur in formal settings, many of them take place in the community. These opportunities may ask you to deliver an evidence-based intervention or engage in consultation through a problem-solving model. Our goal is to bridge the gap from theoretical to applied, and allow you to support actual 51³Ô¹Ïs, which is of course, why we do this work.

In previous years, 51³Ô¹Ïs have administered programs to K-12 schools or alternative education settings. Some examples include delivering small group mental health and mathematics interventions, conducting academic screening, implementing evidence-based reading interventions for 51³Ô¹Ïs in alternative education settings, and supporting professional development sessions for educators and school psychologists.  

Additionally, Dr. Mark Derby has been a part of the Gonzaga Disability Hockey program for 19 years. This long-lasting program teaches children with unique needs the foundations of ice hockey, and serves as a place of partnership, community, and epic “cellies” (celebrations after scoring a goal). Students in Gonzaga’s School Psychology program are often involved with the Disability Hockey program, and on occasion, learn to skate alongside the children they are working with.

Read about one of our 51³Ô¹Ïs' experiences...

School Psych Student

Anne, Class of '28

What was your role within the disability hockey program?
My cohort member, Makalya Sanchez, and I were mainly responsible for recruiting volunteers and facilitating communication between them and the program coordinators. We used posters and digital advertisements through Gonzaga to recruit. Then, we assisted them in signing up and acquiring gear. We attended the practices and worked with the kids on the ice.

How did the program impact your development as a psychologist?
This program had a large impact on my development as a future school psychologist. It taught me about the importance of community programs and their positive impact on children. There are ways to help and contribute to the development of children outside the school setting. Programs such as these create a great outlet for children to build numerous skills outside of school and increase their confidence. Sports in general are amazing for teaching social skills and teamwork. I will continue to look forward to participating in various enriching programs such as Gonzaga Exceptional Bulldogs.

What was your favourite part of the program?
My favourite part of the program was watching the kids improve their hockey skills and confidence on the ice. It was amazing to see how quickly they picked up new skills and develop a passion for the sport. I am a big hockey fan, so it was super rewarding to share my love for the sport with others. I've loved being part of such an impressive program that has a great impact on the community.