Will a School District Really Pick You Over a Big Agency? Yes—Here’s Why!
By Juliana Ramirez, EdS NCSP ABSNP
Owner and Founder of PERA Services®
If you’ve ever considered contracting as an independent school psychologist, you’ve probably had this thought:
"Why would a district pick me when they can go with a big agency?"
It’s a valid concern. Third-party staffing agencies have a huge presence in the school psychology world. They have recruiters, big marketing budgets, and established contracts with districts across the country. But here’s what they don’t have: you.
The truth? Districts will hire independent school psychs, and the market is wide open for you. Let’s break down why.
The Myth: “I’m Too Small to Compete”
A lot of school psychs hesitate to pursue independent contracting because they assume districts only want to work with large agencies. The fear is that being a solo provider makes you less desirable or less competitive.
But that’s simply not true.
Many districts prefer independent contractors because they provide more stability, personalized service, and cost savings. The idea that only large companies get contracts is just a myth—one that’s holding too many school psychs back from claiming their share of the market.
The Market Is Huge—There’s Room for Everyone
Let’s take a step back and look at the big picture.
There is a massive shortage of school psychologists in the U.S. right now. Districts are struggling to fill positions, and many are turning to contractors because they simply don’t have enough staff.
According to the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), the recommended ratio is 1 school psych per 500-700 students—but in reality, many districts are at 1:1,500+ students.
Thousands of school psych positions go unfilled each year, leaving districts scrambling for solutions.
More and more schools are open to contracting because they need support—yesterday.
What does this mean for you? There’s plenty of demand, and there’s more than enough room for independent providers to thrive.
Why Districts Want Independent Contractors
Districts don’t always prefer big staffing agencies. In fact, many would rather work directly with an independent provider like you. Here’s why:
1. Lower Cost
When a district hires a school psych through an agency, they’re not just paying for you—they’re also paying the agency’s cut. Agencies charge huge markups (sometimes 50% or more!).
By working directly with an independent provider, districts save money while still getting high-quality services. That’s a win-win.
2. Personalized Service
You’re not just another name on an agency’s roster. When a district hires you, they get your expertise, your attention to detail, and your commitment to their students.
Big agencies rotate providers frequently, but as an independent contractor, you build long-term relationships with schools. That kind of stability is priceless to administrators.
3. More Stability
One of the biggest complaints districts have about agencies? High turnover.
Many agency-based school psychs leave mid-year because they get moved to different assignments or find better opportunities. Districts don’t want to deal with that instability.
As an independent provider, you control where you work and for how long. That means districts can count on you to stay.
4. Direct Communication
Schools love dealing with the provider directly instead of going through an agency rep. When there’s a concern, they don’t want to call an account manager—they want to talk to you.
Working independently means you have a direct line of communication with the district. No middleman. No red tape. Just clear, professional, and effective collaboration.
How to Position Yourself to Win a Contract
Now that you know why districts will hire independent providers, how do you actually land a contract?
1. Network with Decision-Makers
Start building relationships with special education directors, district HR reps, and school administrators. These are the people who make hiring decisions.
💡 Tip: Attend local school board meetings, join state school psych associations, and connect with district leaders on LinkedIn.
2. Present Yourself Professionally
Even though you’re a solo provider, you should present yourself like a professional business. That means:
✅ Having a simple, polished website
✅ Using a business email address (not just Gmail)
✅ Having a clear contract ready (Check out Your Legal Era Contract Templates for legally sound agreements made just for school psychs!)
3. Highlight Your Value
When pitching to a district, make it clear why you’re the better choice over an agency. Focus on:
✔️ Cost savings
✔️ Consistency and stability
✔️ Personalized service
✔️ Flexibility to meet their needs
💡 Pro Tip: When discussing pricing, don’t undercharge. Use the School Psych Fee Calculator to make sure you’re setting rates that reflect your expertise!
4. Offer Flexibility
Many districts don’t need a full-time psych but do need help with evaluations, consultations, or part-time coverage. If you’re open to part-time, hybrid, or remote work, you become an even more attractive option.
The Takeaway: You Can Get Hired as a 1099!
If you’ve been holding back from independent contracting because you think districts won’t pick you over a big agency, it’s time to let that fear go. Know that regular ol’ school psychs like you and I ARE landing contracts.
✅ There’s a huge demand for school psychs.
✅ Many districts prefer independent providers.
✅ You have unique value that agencies can’t offer.
The market isn’t just open—it’s wide open. And there’s plenty of room for you.
So, if you’ve been thinking about taking the leap into independent practice, now is the time. And if you need help figuring out what to charge, grab the School Psych Fee Calculator to price your services with confidence. If you are ready to land your first district contract then also make sure you check out my 2-hour workshop, Contracting with Confidence and learn exactly how to secure contracts, set your rates, and position yourself as the go-to independent school psych! Sign up here!
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Remember, you have the power to create a career that not only supports you but also reignites your passion for helping others. Here’s to a future filled with flexibility, fulfillment, and financial freedom! Join my email list here
About Juliana
Juliana is a bilingual school psychologist, entrepreneur, and the founder of PERA Services Inc., where she specializes in supporting Ohio school districts with bilingual evaluations for Special Education. Beyond her work in independent practice, Juliana is passionate about coaching and mentoring school psychologists ready to break free from the public school system and build thriving, independent businesses. Since 2023 she has coached and mentored more than 140+ school psychs across the country. Through expert guidance, practical strategies, and the revolutionary LEAP Method, she empowers school psychs to step into autonomy with confidence.
Ready to make the leap? Learn more at www.peraservicesinc.com.
