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In Whiteland, Indiana, the Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation is making strides in supporting students facing mental health challenges. The district has launched a comprehensive initiative to equip its staff, teachers, and even community partners with the skills to respond effectively to mental health concerns, ensuring that students are better supported both in and outside the classroom.
According to FOX 59 news, the initiative, which is part of the Project AWARE program, is aimed at enhancing the well-being of students by providing vital mental health training to those who interact with them daily. Project AWARE (Advancing Wellness And Resiliency in Education) is a federal grant funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Indiana Department of Education (DOE), and the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA). Through this partnership, the district has made it a priority to provide teachers and school staff with Youth Mental Health First Aid certification.
For wellness coordinator Erica Garrity, the decision to bring this program to the district was a clear one. "When I came across this, I knew this was the one," she shared. Along with Kaci Smart, Garrity worked tirelessly to implement the program, ensuring that it met the needs of both students and staff.
The training focuses on a vital approach called ALGEE, a checklist designed to guide those in the program on how to approach, listen to, and support students struggling with mental health issues. ALGEE stands for: Approach, Listen non-judgmentally, Give reassurance, Encourage self-help or professional help, and Explore options for support. The goal is to give staff the confidence and language they need to respond to students' mental health challenges with empathy and understanding.
The program has already made a significant impact within the district. So far, 300 individuals, including teachers, front office staff, and other key school personnel, have been certified in Youth Mental Health First Aid. Staff members have shared how the training has helped them not only support students but also improve their relationships with family members. "Because of this training, I now know how to talk to my daughter... my grandson," Garrity shared, noting that the benefits extend beyond the classroom and into homes.
The district’s commitment to mental health doesn’t stop with youth-focused training. Plans are already in place to expand this initiative to include Adult Mental Health First Aid training. “Our staff are struggling too, so how do we support our staff?” Garrity asked, highlighting the importance of ensuring that school employees also have the tools they need to navigate their own mental health challenges.
In addition to staff training, the district plans to introduce Teen Mental Health First Aid, aimed at teaching high school students how to support their peers during mental health struggles. “The hope is that this training can expand to other districts in the future,” said Emma Kirchmeyer, a staff member who recently completed her certification.
The broader goal is to create a culture where students and staff feel supported and understood, especially when it comes to mental health. “I think it would be fantastic. It would help a lot of teachers, a lot of kids understand, ‘Hey, there are a lot of people out there who are going through the same thing I am,’” Kirchmeyer added.
As mental health awareness continues to grow, the Clark-Pleasant Community School Corporation is leading by example, proving that when communities come together to prioritize well-being, everyone benefits.
If you or your loved one are struggling with your mental health or substance abuse, reach out to Avenues Recovery to receive the help you deserve. Our expert team has helped more than 40,000 individuals transform their loves, and they can help you too. Contact us today to join our vibrant recovery community and to start your journey to sobriety.