Throughout the week of November 3 to 7, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is observing National School Psychology Week. The theme for this year, “Finding Your Path,” highlights the role school psychologists play in helping students, staff, and families navigate academic and personal challenges.
School psychologists in FCPS work with families, teachers, and administrators to address a range of student needs, including academic, social, emotional, and behavioral issues. They use evidence-based practices to support both students and staff in overcoming obstacles.
Donna Desaulniers serves as the senior manager of School Psychology Services at FCPS and oversees more than 200 school psychologists across the division. Her approach emphasizes shared growth and empowerment within her team.
“Recognizing that leadership is a team sport, Donna has created multiple pathways for her staff to grow,” said Mike Axler, director of Intervention and Prevention Services. “From mentoring new psychologists and supervising interns to leading professional learning and division-wide initiatives, she empowers her staff to see themselves as leaders.” He added that this method has encouraged collaboration and innovation within the department.
Axler further praised Desaulniers’ commitment: “Donna has dedicated her career to providing high-quality school psychological services to children and youth, and she has been instrumental in developing and leading programs focused on reducing academic, social, and emotional barriers to students’ learning,” he said. “I can state confidently that Donna is one of the most talented, dedicated, and effective leaders I have ever worked with.”
Under Desaulniers’ direction, the School Psychology Services team has improved risk assessment procedures, crisis intervention strategies, and preventive mental health supports. She introduced specialist positions for better service delivery throughout FCPS schools. Comprehensive professional development programs have also been launched under her leadership in alignment with the district’s Strategic Plan.
Mike Axler noted that “Donna leads with vision, purpose, and intentionality. She’s a skilled problem-solver and critical thinker, with a particular gift for systems-level strategic planning. Her initiatives have improved service delivery, enhanced staff retention, and — most importantly — made a measurable difference in students’ lives.”
Desaulniers’ influence goes beyond FCPS. Beth Werfel, former FCPS school psychology supervisor, recognized her ongoing dedication: “Donna is deeply involved in professional organizations and mentoring programs,” Werfel said.
Desaulniers mentors through the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) and represents Northern Virginia in the Virginia Academy of School Psychologists (VASP). She also contributed to expanding FCPS’s mentorship program for new school psychologists—a program acknowledged nationally in educational literature.
Her efforts underscore a belief in collective progress within the field of school psychology.
This focus on student well-being aligns with Goal 2 of the 2023-30 FCPS Strategic Plan: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.
Additionally, FCPS will sponsor four full-time internships for school psychology during the 2026-27 academic year. Applicants at both master’s or doctoral levels are eligible to apply by December 1. More information can be found in the internship application packet.
Questions about internships may be directed via email to Joshua Kefer at [email protected].
