NBOE is excited to announce a new partnership between the Office of Student Life and Erika's Lighthouse, a leading non-profit organization dedicated to depression and suicide prevention. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in the District’s commitment to promoting mental health awareness and providing vital resources for students and the community. This year, students in grades 5 & 6, 7 & 8, and 9 & 11 will benefit from targeted one-day lessons on depression and suicide awareness. These sessions are designed to equip students with knowledge about the signs and symptoms of depression and encourage healthy mental health practices.
On August 13, 2024, the executive staff and school administrators underwent detailed training on the Erika’s Lighthouse program, followed by additional training for all student support staff on August 28, 2024. This training is part of the new depression and suicide education curriculum implemented this year, made possible through the AWARE grant. The curriculum aims to provide students with essential knowledge about mental health, reduce stigma, and encourage help-seeking behaviors. Erika's Lighthouse hosted a parent workshop on September 12, 2024, focusing on identifying depression and suicide in students. This workshop aimed to empower parents with the tools and knowledge needed to support their children effectively.
Looking ahead, the District will host additional parent workshops throughout the year to further educate families on recognizing and addressing mental health issues. Schools will also be encouraged to organize staff well-being activities, school-wide mental health campaigns, and empowerment clubs. These initiatives are designed to foster a supportive and proactive environment for both students and staff, reinforcing NBOE’s shared commitment to a healthier, more informed school community.