We are an alternative high school and our students have faced many obstacles to attending school even before the advent of covid-19. They are at-risk in all senses of the word. A scary number have encountered significant trauma and have high ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) scores. Despite this, many are resilient; they are capable of helping others solve problems and settle conflicts.
Because of the negative stereotype of students in alternative education schools, our students are often not considered leaders.
Their potential, especially as it relates to conflict resolution, problem solving and supporting peers who may be suffering from mental health illnesses is not recognized. With the proper training, they can be entrusted with taking a leading role in identifying, understanding and responding to signs and symptoms of both interpersonal and intrapersonal conflict.
My Project
Although I am a licensed Master's Degree Social Worker (LMSW) with many years of experience in school social work and a full tool belt, the curriculum in the Teen Mental Health First Aid program will offer me something new to reach an increased range of students who are experiencing problems and need a connection to professional help. Peer to peer advice, especially from those who have experienced some of the same issues, could be very powerful.
The Teen Mental Health First Aid Instructor's Course will allow me to instruct a group of student leaders at our alternative high school in how to identify, understand and respond to signs and symptoms of mental health or substance-use issues in their friends and peers.
In order to train our student leaders to recognize and help their friends with mental health and substance use problems and crises and how to get the help of an adult quickly, I must first participate in certified training by the National Council for Behavioral Health. As a full time member of the school staff, the subsequent student leader training will be much more effective when delivered by an adult they already have a relationship with and trust.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. Baughman and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.