AT&T helping fund Pueblo D60 mental health awareness initiative for high school students
Pueblo ChieftainDec 26, 2020
Dec. 26—One of the biggest side effects from the COVID-19 pandemic has been the toll it has taken on the mental health of people around the globe.
Students have been no exception, stuck more indoors and away from friends in a time of their lives where they should be having the most fun possible.
In order to help with arising mental health issues,
"State of Grace Counseling offers 25 full-time professionals who will be available to serve students from the district's four comprehensive high schools and one alternative education school through a strategically scheduled model of support," D60 said in a press release. "State of Grace will develop relationships with each school community and provide ongoing support as needed for any student and/or their families."
Funding for the program will come from a 2019 donation of
"Through our giving initiative, Believe Denver, we are supporting organizations that help create sustainable progress for underserved communities,"
D60 director of communications
All four high schools, plus D60's alternative online school in
Students can sign up by reaching out to their school counselors or teachers, or students could be recommended for the program.
"Although we haven't seen a significant increase, we know the need is there," Sprouse said on whether or not the district has seen an increased need for mental health help. "In D60, it is important for us to provide resources to our students to help them achieve in the classroom and in their personal lives.
"Although the
The program will include group and individual counseling, mentoring, education on the negative impacts of drugs and alcohol, and other interventions designed to address students' social/emotional needs.
With Pueblo hosting an
As for the length of the program, Sprouse wasn't sure but said the district will continue to look for resources to help students and maintain the relationship with
"Partnerships with community resources for our families are always something the district pursues on an ongoing basis," Sprouse said. "We are fortunate that
Chieftain sports reporter
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