Darien Special Ed Official Named ‘2016 Outstanding Early Career Professional’ by UConn School

More
Scott McCarthy DPS Special Education 3-30-16

Scott McCarthy, program director of special education and student services for Darien Public Schools, at the Neag School of Education Alumni Society

Download PDF

Scott McCarthy, program director of special education and student services for Darien Public Schools, has been named the 2016 Outstanding Early Career Professional by the University of Connecticut’s Neag School of Education Alumni Society.

Scott McCarthy DPS Special Education 3-30-16

Scott McCarthy, program director of special education and student services for Darien Public Schools, at the Neag School of Education Alumni Society

McCarthy was recognized in March at the 18th Annual Awards Celebration of the Neag School of Education Alumni Society, held in Storrs.

McCarthy earned four degrees from UConn, beginning with his bachelor’s of science degree in 2008 in psychology. He later received from the Neag School his master’s degree and 6th year diploma, followed by his Ph.D. in educational psychology with a concentration in school psychology.

“Dr. McCarthy holds the distinction of being one of the most talented, hard-working, and knowledgeable psychologists I have had the privilege to work with in my career and has my highest regard as a professional,” says Mary Forde, director of pupil personnel services for Greenwich Public Schools.

___________

— an announcement from the Neag School of Education at the University of Connecticut

___________

McCarthy assumed the role of program director in Darien this past November. Prior to his role in Darien, McCarthy was a school psychologist for the Greenwich Public Schools, where he not only supported students, but also was responsible for the planning and professional learning of psychologists and social workers.

His involvement in the district was extensive, as he ran an after-school video game club and tutoring program, and was a member of the Crisis Team, Student Assistance Team, and District Anti-Bullying Committee, and chair of the Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) Committee.

“[McCarthy’s] insight into the social and emotional needs of students is admirable. He easily connects with children, gaining their trust and confidence,” says Shelley Somers, principal of Central Middle School in Greenwich.

“His calm demeanor and genuine concern foster student self-reflection and growth. He communicates well with parents, sharing his thoughts in a professional, kind, and thoughtful manner.”

McCarthy’s keen insight was especially needed when a series of tragedies occurred while he was a psychologist at Greenwich’s Central Middle School. According to Forde, he gave “just [the] right” amount of support to students: “He made sure the staff was available and accessible, but not overbearing.”

About the Neag School of Education

The Neag School of Education stands out as a major contributor to instructional and research excellence at the University of Connecticut, one of the nation’s leading public higher education institutions.

With academic departments dedicated to educational leadership, educational psychology, and curriculum and instruction, the Neag School also offers a five-year integrated bachelor’s/master’s program in teacher education and a one-year, post-baccalaureate teacher education program in critical shortage areas.

According to 2017 U.S. News & World Report rankings, the Neag School ranks among the top 20 public graduate schools of education in the nation and has four specialty programs ranked in the top 20 nationally: special education, educational psychology, secondary teacher education, and educational administration and supervision. Visit education.uconn.edu for more information.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *