School Psychologist

The School Psychologist are employed by the school as members of the Child Study Team. Each School Psychologist has a minimum of a Master’s Degree in Psychology. The school psychologist has expertise in determining a child’s level of cognitive and conceptual development. In addition the psychologist is concerned with the emotional status of the student, and how both internal and external factors may affect behavior and performance in school.

There are currently two School Psychologists employed in the Hackettstown Public Schools.

 

Sarita Rao Hackettstown High School 908-852-8150 Ext. 2261 srao@hackettstown.org

Dr. Rao is originally from Texas and obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology at The University of Texas at Austin. After completing her undergraduate studies and due to her growing interest in psychology and working with children, particularly in the educational setting, she decided to further her education and enrolled at Texas A&M where she received her  Doctorate in Philosophy. While in graduate school, she was provided opportunities to work with children of all ages in the school and counseling setting. She moved to New Jersey in 2014 and has been a School Psychologist with the Hackettstown Child Study Team for 5 years.

Nicole Janiec-Stark Willow Grove Elementary School 908-852-2805 Ext. 4232 njaniec@hackettstown.org

Ms. Stark graduated from Montclair State University where she received an BA in Psychology and a certificate in Child Advocacy. She obtained a Master's in School Psychology at Iona College in New Rochelle, NY. Upon graduating in 2016, she began working in the Keansburg School District at the high school level, and has been a School Psychologist within the Hackettstown School District for the past 4 years at the elementary level.