Abbett Counselor- Mrs. Kandyil

Hello Abbett Family,

I am thrilled to join the Abbett Family as your School Counselor!

With over 20 years of experience in education, I have had the privilege of serving students and families in a variety of roles—as a School Counselor, Administrator, and Educator—both domestic and international settings. This extensive and diverse professional background has shaped my holistic approach to supporting students’ academic, social-emotional, personal development and college and career readiness.

Throughout my career, I have worked with learners from many cultural and educational backgrounds, which has deepened my belief in the importance of equity, empathy, and connection in education. My counseling philosophy is rooted in building trusting relationships, empowering students with coping and problem-solving skills, and fostering a safe, inclusive school environment where every child feels seen, heard, and valued.

I am passionate about designing and implementing comprehensive guidance programs that support students not just in their academic journey, but in all areas of life. My goal is to nurture the whole child—promoting academic achievement, personal growth, emotional well-being, and College readiness.

As an elementary school counselor, I strive to build therapeutic relationships with students grounded in acceptance, trust, and empathy. I believe in providing a safe and supportive space where children feel empowered to express themselves and process their emotions at their own pace and developmental level.

I am committed to working collaboratively with staff, students, and families to foster a clean, safe, positive, and inclusive school environment—one where every child feels valued, supported, and equipped to thrive.

At Abbett Elementary, our counseling mission is to provide a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student is empowered socially, emotionally, and academically to reach their full potential. In partnership with families and the community, we support students’ growth by fostering resilience, character development, and early awareness of College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR), laying the foundation for lifelong success.

 We envision every student feeling valued and prepared, guided by a caring counseling program that partners with families to develop skills and confidence for future college, career, and military opportunities.

Outside of my professional responsibilities, I enjoy spending quality time with my children and family. I also find joy and balance through working out, practicing yoga and meditation, reading, cooking, and gardening.

Please reach out to me if you need my assistance. I look forward to learn more about each one of you this school Year.

Thank you & Have A Wonderful Year!

Bindu Kandyil

Vision statement

The Abbett Elementary Counseling department is dedicated to empowering students to achieve their full potential. We aim to equip them with the essential tools and skills needed to become confident learners, outstanding team members, and compassionate individuals.

Mission statement

The Abbett Elementary Counseling Department is a data driven, comprehensive program designed to assist all students with their academic and social/emotional development. Our mission is to help all students, regardless of background achieve academic and social emotional success by encouraging them to become confident learners, exceptional team mates, and kind humans. 

Mental and emotional health can affect a child's daily life, ability to focus, school performance, friendships, and more.  If you feel like your child is struggling there are many resources to help you.  Start with just talking to your child and see if they can identify what they are feeling.  Sometimes they don't know and are struggling to understand their own emotions.  If you think your child needs support, reach out to your pediatrician or school counselor.  They are also able to provide you with resources and guidance to help your child.  You may also want to check out the SAMHSA website that provides information and resources to help parents and caregivers. 

Bullying

No student should be subjected to bullying or harassment that interferes with their ability to learn or their safety.

Visit the Bullying Prevention and Investigation page on the district website for more information and resources.

Anonymous Alerts®

You can use the Anonymous Alerts® webform or mobile app to quickly, easily and anonymously report bullying, cyberbullying and other sensitive topics to school officials.

Anonymous Alerts® is monitored by GISD Security 24-hours daily and should only be used for serious and urgent matters. In the event of an emergency or life-threatening event, always call 911.

Submit an Anonymous Alert®

Download the app

To place a report from a mobile device, first download the free Anonymous Alerts® app from the Apple App Store or Google Play store. Then open the app and enter activation code garlandisd.

If you would like to report a bullying incident that is happening at Abbett, please fill out the Abbett Bullying Report Form.  All submissions will be investigated and information will be shared on the outcome of the investigation as warranted.  

Abbett Bullying Reporting Form

Abbett is a Grief Sensitive School

Tragedy and loss are a part of life.  This does not mean it is easy to lose a family member or loved one.  We are excited to let you know that Abbett's Counseling Department has joined forces with New York Life's Grief-Sensitive Schools.  This partnership will ensure our students and families who are impacted by grief will have the resources needed, available to them.  Please contact Mrs. Rincones when resources are needed or when your family has experienced a loss.  You can also go to www.grievingstudents.org.  These resources are free and beneficial to the healing process!

What do you want to be when you grow up?

A basketball player?    A computer programmer?     A musician?

We have all been asked this question multiple times. In reality it's not always an easy question to answer.

College awareness is an integral part of GISD culture. Providing students opportunities to explore career interests starts as early as elementary school.

More Information

Visit the district website for more information about the GISD Guidance & Counseling programs.