Kevin Bryant Board Director | Children's Mercy Hospital K.C.
Kevin Bryant Board Director | Children's Mercy Hospital K.C.
Center School District has introduced a new trauma-informed mental health pilot program in collaboration with Children's Mercy and Blue Cross Blue Shield. The initiative aims to foster school environments that support students' mental wellbeing and offer resources before crises develop.
After one semester, seven out of the district's eight schools have reported fewer office discipline referrals. This program is part of Children's Mercy's five-year Illuminate Plan, which includes 14 projects focused on enhancing youth mental health through research investments and increased access to specialized services.
Emily Thorpe, Manager of School Health Initiatives for Children's Mercy, highlighted the challenges faced due to a national shortage of mental health providers, particularly in Missouri. "Because we don’t have the resources to provide 1:1 therapy for each child, we look to the schools–where kids spend the most time," she explained.
The program began over the summer with teacher training conducted by RestoreEd, a consulting group founded by former educators from Kansas City Public School District's Restorative Justice Department. The training emphasized classroom community building, direct communication tools, conflict resolution strategies, and trust development.
For further details, visit The Martin City & South KC Telegraph website.
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