Training in Comprehensive, Culturally Affirming Services in School Psychology (TRACCS)

What does TRACCS offer to students in the Master’s in School Psychology program?

The TRACCS fellowship provides generous financial assistance to students admitted to the Masters in School Psychology program, which includes a stipend to cover living expenses, full tuition coverage, material reimbursement and health insurance.

How does the fee allocation work for conferences and professional memberships?

TRACCS trainees are allocated $1,200 annually for TASP membership, TASP Summer Institute registration, and related travel. Additional funds may be available for the TASP and NASP conventions. For any conference or travel plans, please seek approval from Dr. Swisher-Banks or Dr. Eddy before making any purchases or reservations.

Does the material reimbursement for the program include books that we buy for other courses/classes?

If the textbooks are related to TRACCS activities, then they can be reimbursed. However, if the textbooks are for other courses/classes you are taking, the monthly stipends you receive are intended to cover those costs. We recommend checking the UT Libraries website first for any other course-related textbooks you may need.

Is proficiency in Spanish a major requirement to be a part of the program?

Although preference is given to Spanish-speaking individuals, we have had several trainees in the past who were not Spanish speakers.

Is TASP membership mandatory? 

It is required to be a TASP member throughout your time in the program. It is also highly encouraged that all trainees take the opportunity to connect with an experienced licensed school psychologist in Texas, through the TASP’s ‘SPs in a pod” mentorship program, as it is curated for networking and professional growth opportunities within the school psychology community.

Are all seminars mandatory to attend?

Yes, attendance at all seminars is mandatory for TRACCS trainees. Seminar participation is a crucial part of the fellowship and contributes to your professional development and completion of program requirements.

Can we do our internships at sites other than Del Valle ISD?

Currently, Del Valle ISD is the only LEA partner for internships in the TRACCS program. However, the program may expand to include additional LEA partners in the future. If more sites become available, you may have the opportunity to complete your internship at other locations.

Is the program accredited by NASP? If not, does it impact our ability to practice as school psychologist in different states upon graduation?

Our program is in the process of seeking NASP accreditation. We started the Master’s program in 2012 and began working on NASP accreditation three years ago; there is a probationary period required by NASP that we are now in. We have several students who work in different states (Louisiana, California, Colorado, etc.). Our students complete a portfolio that is submitted to NASP when they seek certification, and the program director signs a form that is also submitted to NASP. Working in different states upon graduation has not been a problem for any of our graduates.

Does the program conduct official in-person tours before the fall semester starts?

We don’t have formal tours but would be happy to arrange for an in-person tour this Spring or in the summer.