Episode 10: What Is Strong: Using AI and Strength-Based Practices to Transform School Psychology

This week on the Boston School Psychs Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Byron McClure, nationally certified school psychologist, founder of School Psych AI, and co author of Hacking Deficit Thinking, for an inspiring and practical conversation about the future of school psychology. Together with Dr. Andria Amador, Senior Director of Behavioral Health Services for Boston Public Schools, the discussion explores how innovation and strengths based practices can expand the impact of school psychologists in meaningful ways.Dr. McClure shares the story behind School Psych AI and offers practical guidance for how school psychologists can begin using AI tools ethically and effectively in their daily work. The conversation focuses on building AI literacy, starting small with everyday tasks, and using technology as a thought partner rather than a replacement for professional judgment. Listeners will hear how Boston Public Schools is taking a thoughtful, system wide approach to training school psychologists and integrating AI into practice.The episode also dives into strengths-based practices and the importance of shifting from deficit thinking to a more balanced, holistic view of students. Dr. McClure and Dr. Amador discuss how school psychologists can acknowledge real challenges while still centering student strengths, especially in psychological reports, team meetings, and everyday interactions. They share concrete examples of how language, mindset, and intentional action can change how students and families experience school psychology services.Together, they highlight how school psychologists can take action within their own sphere of influence, whether through small daily practices or larger systems level change. This conversation is a powerful reminder that when school psychologists combine innovative tools with strengths based thinking, they are better equipped to do work that truly matters for students, families, and school communities.