[ad_1]
BISMARCK, ND (KFYR) – Middle school can be a difficult time for students to navigate. So when teachers and principals at Bismarck Simle Middle School realized the need for mental health support, they sprang into action.
Last year, the school’s clinical psychologist saw 36 students, and many others benefited from Simle’s “support system” program, where students receive three levels of behavioral health help.
“Behavioral health is for everyone, so we all have needs, so when you think about it in a school setting, it’s really important that all kids get the skills and how to deal with resilience,” said Principal Russ Riehl.
The program is a partnership between Bismarck Public Schools, Sanford Health and the Department of Human Services’ Division of Behavioral Health.
“We’re all in this together. I mean not just one student, not two. They’re not just students – they’re members of the community, they’re adults too. It’s everybody, so we’re all in this together and I think it’s great to be there for each other,” said Chelsea Hertz, parent and family liaison.
The program allows students to get free help without going through a medical provider.
“We’re working just like them. So it’s hard to take time off work, and it’s an hour away from school. So for them to be here, parents stay at work, students stay in school, it’s honestly a win-win,” Hertz said.
Mikaila Kaseman worked as a counselor at another school before Simle, and noticed a difference in students who had access to the psychologist.
“You can tell the difference between academics and behavior in a student’s performance,” said 8th grade counselor Mikayla Kaseman.
Simle Middle School has seen a total shift in mental health.
“We do much more than outcomes. Now, we think more in terms of interventions.” Ryle said.
A three-step help system helps students understand quickly and takes the stress out of referencing.
“We know that babies who need to see a doctor are booked months in advance, and most of these things can’t wait that long,” Riehl said.
“Support systems” helped the group realize that internalizing behavior problems are just as important as externalizing problems.
Riehl encourages parents to reach out to their children’s schools and ask for support.
Copyright 2022 KFYR. all rights reserved.
[ad_2]
Source link
