HCPSS School Psychologist Named Maryland School Psychologist of the Year

April 24th, 2024

School psychologist Dr. Laura Smith-Grose has been named the Maryland School Psychologist of the Year by the Maryland School Psychologist Association. Smith-Grose was recognized for demonstrating the highest level of professional practice and providing the full range of school psychological services.

“Dr. Smith-Grose has earned the trust of students, families and staff as shown through her unspoken willingness to support them. Whether she is working behind the scenes as leader of the Instructional Intervention Team or utilizing her strengths in compassion and reflective listening to address student mental health needs, Dr. Smith-Grose does this seamlessly and without blinking an eye,” says Dr. Cynthia Schulmeyer, HCPSS’ Coordinator of Psychological Services. “Smith-Grose has also contributed to the field of school psychology by supervising ten school psychologist interns, many of whom work in HCPSS schools,” Schulmeyer adds.

Smith-Grose was named the 2024 Howard County School Psychologist of the Year earlier this year and as a result, was eligible for the state-level award. In being named the Maryland School Psychologist of the Year, Smith-Grose is now a candidate for the National Association of School Psychologists’ School Psychologist of the Year Award, the winner of which will be announced in January 2025.

Smith-Grose was presented with her latest award at a virtual Maryland Psychological Association General Membership Meeting earlier this month. HCPSS’ Office of Psychological Services will recognize Dr. Smith-Grose in May.