Elementary Guidance Services

Guidance Counselor
Molly B. Kuczinski
e-mail: kuczinski@southfayette.org
Phone: (412) 221-4542, Extension 335

Education:
B.S. John Carroll University – University Heights, OH
MA. Heidelberg College – Tiffin, OH

Professional Memberships:
Pennsylvania School Counselors Association
Allegheny County Counselors Association
The purpose of guidance services at South Fayette Elementary is to assist each student in his or her social, educational, vocational, and personal development. Mrs. Kuczinski has daily office hours from 8:15 am to 3:45 pm. Conferences with students and parents will receive primary consideration and will be scheduled whenever necessary. The primary responsibilities of the school counselor fall into three main areas: counseling, coordinating and consulting.

Counseling
Counseling services are offered to all students both individually and in groups. These services are designed to address the academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of students. In addition, the counselor will participate in, coordinate, or conduct activities that contribute to the effective operation of the school.

Coordination
The Counselor coordinates a variety of special programs within the school. These may include registration, peer helper and conflict mediation programs, long-term educational program planning, and guiding students in other decision-making plans for the future. In addition, the school counselor is responsible for the placement of elementary school students and coordinating the administration of all standardized tests.

Consultation
An important part of the school counselor's role is consultation. Counselors may consult with parents, faculty, other school staff, and community agencies in order to best meet the individual needs of all students. Some of the more common consultation roles for a counselor include: facilitating teacher-parent conferences, test interpretation, working with outside support agencies and private medical doctors to deliver necessary treatment programs, and meeting with students and parents to address academic, behavioral, and emotional needs.