A Freeport native is the new psychologist at Leechburg Area School District.
Cortney Chelecki, 32, resides in Harrison and graduated from Freeport Area High School in 2009.
But high school life had its challenges for Chelecki, and, as the district psychologist, she is dedicated to helping students navigate school in the most mentally healthy way possible.
“I grew up in a low socioeconomic income, on the poorer side, growing up in Freeport. School was a safe haven for me because I felt equal to my peers, and I did excel academically. I always wanted to create a safe haven for all students,” Chelecki said of her decision to become a licensed psychologist.
Chelecki’s mother was a single parent raising four children.
“I didn’t have everything my peers had,” Chelecki said.
Chelecki’s first day was Sept. 7.
Her daily duties at Leechburg include educational testing, monitoring Individual Education Programming (IEP) meetings and counseling services.
“The role focuses on not just learning, but social and emotional development,” Chelecki said. “If there’s a student in crisis and needs someone to talk to, my door is always open.”
She received her master’s degree from Duquesne University in 2016 and is enrolled in its doctoral psychology program.
Superintendent Tiffany Nix said the district is lucky to employ Chelecki.
“Cortney has been a wonderful addition to our staff. School psychological services are very important in addressing and meeting our students’ needs,” Nix said.
Chelecki’s position is part time, and she works about 30 hours weekly.
She is the sole psychologist in the district, in addition to a licensed school therapist.
Chelecki noted the pandemic has left many students dealing with socialization issues.
“If a student is coming in distressed, I can see them. It’s definitely every kid seems to be delayed socially because of the pandemic, and we’re all trying to play catch-up,” Chelecki said.
“It’s small and everyone is so nice. I’m new and everybody is helping me navigate everything,” Chelecki said.
