District 203 has made social-emotional learning a high priority for all students.  When developing plans for the beginning of the school year, teachers were provided with resources and direction on how to build classroom community in a virtual environment, which is one of the most important aspects of supporting the mental health of students.  Additionally, all teachers have participated in training on how to deal with the impact of trauma within the school setting.

Students in grades 6-12 will continue to participate in the Signs of Suicide (SOS) program.  The program is designed to:

• Increase knowledge and awareness about depression
• Encourage students to seek help for themselves or on behalf of a friend
• Reduce stigma around mental illness

Following the presentation, all students complete a form asking them to identify a trusted adult and to indicate if they would like to talk to someone about themselves or a friend. 

In addition to the core curriculum and SOS program, District teams are consistently reviewing student data on academic, behavior and engagement, and reaching out to support students for in-person instruction or virtual intervention as needed. 

Our student services staff is available to connect and support all District 203 students and families with direct consultation or a referral to a community agency. Should you have concerns about your student’s mental health, please reach out to the school social worker at the elementary level or your student’s counselor at the JH/HS level.