Photo courtesy of CASA Mental Health.
CASA Mental Health is bringing school-based mental health services to more youth in the Central Alberta region.
In February, CASA Classrooms will launch within West Central High School in Rocky Mountain House and the Daysland School.
“We are very excited to host a CASA Classroom in Wild Rose School Division. The opportunity to access critical mental health support within a classroom setting and located in their own school division will be a huge benefit to our students and their families,” said Supermintendent of Schools, Wild Rose School Division. “These new services will enhance our ability to provide powerful learning environments to students that focus both on their individual learning and wellness needs.”
The classrooms serve children and teens with mental health challenges, that impact their home, social, and school lives.
Through the program, youth receive the support they need in a coordinated approach by a mental health team and a teacher in a location they are familiar with.
The Rocky Mountain House classroom will serve students in Grades 8 through 10, with the Daysland classroom serving Grade 7 to 10 students.
“After many years as a principal, I saw firsthand the benefits of mental health classrooms. I also experienced the impacts CASA makes on kids and families,” said Janet Hancock, CASA Mental Health Board Chair. “School-based supports decrease the risk of treatment in hospitals by providing services in the setting where children and teens learn, grow, and thrive.”
Mental health classrooms are already serving youth and families in Red Deer, and Wetaskiwin, with plans to continue expanding the program across the province.
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