The Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board Unveils New 3-Year Road Map For Mental Health And Addictions
by Bob Montgomery
In honour of World Mental Health Day, the Huron-Perth Catholic District School Board has launched its new three-year Mental Health and Addictions Road Map for 2024-2027.
The plan reinforces their commitment to boosting student engagement, reducing absenteeism, and fostering academic success within a Christ-centered environment.
Their three-year road map will focus on:
1. Establishing Organizational Conditions for Effective School Mental Health
2. Building Capacity in Mental Health Literacy and Social Emotional Learning
3. Providing Equitable Access to Evidence-Informed, Culturally Relevant, and Identity Affirming Mental Health Supports
4. Increasing Student Attendance, Safety, and Family Engagement
Key highlights of the strategy include:
● Enhanced Attendance Support: Formalizing procedures and responsibilities for school staff and Social Workers to significantly enhance academic outcomes.
● Comprehensive Mental Health and Social Services: Providing students with access to essential support throughout their school day to promote overall well-being.
● Collaborative Community Relationships: Continuing partnerships with community services to ensure timely and appropriate access to needed services.
● Capacity Building: Empowering our Mental Health Team and school-based staff to meet student social and emotional needs in innovative and effective ways.
The Road Map and Action Plan was developed with extensive input from staff, school leaders, students, caregivers, and community partners. And they are deeply grateful for their feedback and insights, which have helped shape a strategy that addresses their community's strengths and needs in mental health and addiction services. By promoting inclusive, compassionate, and justice-oriented approaches within their Catholic schools and communities, they aim to enhance the holistic well-being of their students, staff and families, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
The three-year road map and this year's action plan are available on their website: www.huronperthcatholic.ca/mentalhealth.
