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Student Support Services

Together, we respond to the unique needs of students as they relate to their academic, social-emotional, and behavioral wellbeing in the educational setting. Our team is comprised of teachers, school counselors, school psychologists, school social workers, speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and administrators.  Through a coordinated and collaborative approach with families and staff, we strive to ensure that every student receives meaningful access to the general education curriculum and participation in all aspects and activities of the general education setting to the maximum extent possible. We support the district’s vision of designing an educational process that addresses individual differences while focusing on the belief that all students can learn and succeed. 
 
The department is responsible for the development and coordination of a range of services and supports including the following: 
•    Special Education Programs and Services 
•    Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) – ages 3-5 
•    Committee on Special Education (CSE) – ages 5-21
•    School Counseling 
•    School Based Behavioral Health and Wellness Services 

District Mission
The mission of the Seaford UFSD is to provide our students with an innovative educational program that will empower students to develop their academic and social skills while becoming learners and leaders who create a better present and future in a democratic society.

District Vision
The vision of Seaford UFSD is to provide a collaborative environment where faculty, staff, students, parents, and the community can engage in meaningful communication and involvement. This collaboration fosters a sense of ownership, school spirit, and pride among all stakeholders.  Our educational approach is tailored to accommodate individual differences and is grounded in the belief that every student can learn and succeed. We will continuously assess the progress of students and teachers to ensure ongoing achievement. Both students and teachers will be held to high standards in academic performance, conduct, and civic responsibility.  We are committed to nurturing students' cultural awareness, instilling an appreciation for the arts, promoting tolerance, and celebrating diversity. Our goal is to prepare students to become respectful and responsible citizens in a global community.  

District Shared Beliefs 
Every child is able to learn and become an active lifelong learner. 
•    Each student is a critical component in their own learning and the learning of others.
•    Each time a student meets with success, they develop greater self-confidence and self-worth. 
•    Diversity should be embraced, appreciated, and respected in practice and educational philosophy. 
•    Students are encouraged to be independent thinkers, celebrate individuality and creativity, and work cooperatively with other students. 
•    Differentiated instruction is paramount in meeting the academic and social-emotional wellbeing of all learners.
•    Individuals are held accountable for their actions and words.
•    Every staff member, parent/guardian, Board of Education member and community stakeholder is able to influence and support the learning of children.  
•    Habits of Mind (Costa and Kallick, 2008) are skills to prepare every child to meet the challenges of school and the workplace in the 21st century. 
•    Student access to and utilization of appropriate and innovative instructional technology resources is necessary for success.
•    Each District school implements an integrated curriculum that is developmentally sequential from grade to grade. 
•    Honesty, integrity, and respect are encouraged and expected to be modeled by all staff. 
•    Collaboration is best achieved through proactive interactions between students, staff, families, the Board of Education, and community partnerships.  
 

Mary Catherine Culella-Sun

Ms. Mary Catherine Culella-Sun
Executive Director for
Student Support Services

(516) 592-4360
mculellasun@seaford.k12.ny.us 

Seaford High School
1575 Seamans Neck Road
Seaford, NY 11783


Our Team

Jamie Hermel

Ms. Jamie Hermel
Secondary Assistant Director
of Pupil Personnel Services
(516) 592-4360
jhermel@seaford.k12.ny.us

Dana Battaglia

Dr. Dana Battaglia
Elementary Assistant Director
of Pupil Personnel Services
(516) 592-4360
dbattaglia@seaford.k12.ny.us


Dr. Andrea Kantor
Lead Psychologist and
CPSE/CSE Chairperson
(516) 592-4360
akantor@seaford.k12.ny.us