Mansfield Public Schools is announcing that James Buccini has accepted the new position of School Social Worker for the district. The school district created this position to counsel students and serve as a liaison between home, school, and outside services to help meet students’ psychosocial needs. The position is supported by a grant financed with American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds specifically designated to help districts build capacity for mental health support for students emerging from the pandemic.
Jim Buccini is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with ten years of experience who has served as an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT, and most recently as a Clinician for United Services. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Akron, and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Syracuse University.
“Jim will be a tremendous asset to our team supporting students,” says Dr. Shamim Patwa, Director of Student Support Services for Mansfield Public Schools. “His experience is grounded in relationship-building and encouraging mutual respect. Students respond to counselors who have a sincere commitment to them, and Jim has a proven track record with student support at Gateway Community College and at a health care provider in Syracuse. I am confident he will help these young people find their strengths when their relationship is founded on trust. This position will be a tremendous asset to our families, staff, and especially young students,” she adds.
Jim and his husband reside in Mansfield where they are raising their four children.