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School Psychological Services » Mrs. Olivia Kudlawiec

Mrs. Olivia Kudlawiec

Olivia K. Mrs. Olivia Kudlawiec, Ed.S., Nationally Certified School Psychologist

Phone: 814-487-7613 ext. 3610

Office: Junior-Senior High School, Student Services Suite

Email: [email protected]

I am entering my ninth year as a School Psychologist and my fourth year with the Forest Hills School District. Prior to joining Forest Hills, I served as the School Psychologist at North Star School District and as the School Psychologist/Special Education Coordinator at Portage Area School District.

Before pursuing graduate studies in School Psychology, I worked in the mental health field as a Therapeutic Support Staff (TSS) for children with special needs and as a Blended Case Manager supporting adults with mental health challenges. These experiences deepened my understanding of diverse needs and strengthened my commitment to supporting individuals across developmental stages.

I am a strong advocate for inclusive learning environments where all students can grow academically, socially, emotionally, and behaviorally through high-quality, evidence-based instruction and supports. I believe that in order for students to thrive, their psychological, physical, and emotional needs must be addressed. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is witnessing students overcome challenges and make meaningful progress when given the appropriate services and supports.

In addition to my background in psychology, I hold a K–12 Principal Certification, which I earned through Point Park University. This training has expanded my knowledge in instructional leadership, curriculum and instruction, and systemic improvement. I am particularly passionate about Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) as a framework to ensure that all students’ needs are met through data-driven decision-making, high-impact instructional practices, and individualized interventions aligned with specific skill development.

If you believe I can be of support to you or your student(s), please do not hesitate to reach out to me directly at 814-487-7613, ext. 3610 or by email at [email protected]. 

Certifications:

  • Administrative I: Principal PK-12 Certificate
  • Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP)
  • Educational Specialist II: PA Certified School Psychologist PK-12

Education:

  • K-12 Principal Certification, Point Park University (2022)
  • Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in School Psychology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2017)
  • Master of Education in Educational Psychology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania (2015)
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown (2011)

 

 

A School Psychologist is trained to provide the following services:

Consultation

  • Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to find effective solutions to learning and behavior challenges.
  • Help others understand child development and how it affects learning and behavior.
  • Strengthen working relationships between teachers, parents, and service providers in the community.
  • Assist in transition planning for secondary students. 

Evaluation/Assessment

  • Complete psychoeducational evaluations to determine eligibility for special education or gifted education.
  • Assess cognitive abilities, academic skills and aptitude for learning.
  • Complete evaluations to determine eligibility for Section 504 service agreements.
  • Assess social-emotional development and mental health status.
  • Assist staff in the analysis of student data to inform academic instruction and intervention needs.

Intervention

  • Provide brief counseling to help resolve interpersonal or family problems that interfere with school performance.
  • Provide small-group instruction for students to support social, emotional, and behavioral well being.
  • Work directly with children and their families to help resolve problems in adjustment and learning.
  • Help families and schools manage crises, such as death, illness, or community trauma. 

Prevention

  • Provide staff and teachers with knowledge of evidence-based instruction and interventions to support student achievement, social development, emotional well-being, and behavior.
  • Promote tolerance, understanding, and appreciation of diversity within the school community.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of systems-level supports to create a learning environment that is inclusive and supportive of all students’ needs. 
  • Collaborate with school staff and community agencies to provide services directed at improving psychological and physical health.

Research and Planning

  • Evaluate the effectiveness of academic and behavior management programs.
  • Identify and implement programs and strategies to improve schools and instruction.
  • Use evidence-based research to develop and/or recommend effective interventions.