The Government of Alberta's partnership with CASA Mental Health will include the addition of a CASA classroom in High River.
Earlier this month, the Province announced their plan to open 60 more mental health classrooms across Alberta, with $70 million in funding to do so over three years.
The plan includes the establishment of nine new classrooms in seven communities this month, one of which will be in High River.
CASA classrooms provide dedicated support to students facing mental health challenges without disrupting their education, by making that support available in the classroom setting.
Each mental health classroom is staffed by a full-time teacher as well as a variety of other mental health specialists.
The Foothills School Division (FSD) announced their new CASA classroom soon after the provincial government's announcement.
It will serve students from grades 6-10, with a maximum of 12 students in the classroom.
FSD's SUperintendent Chris Fuzessy was quoted in a release.
"We are thrilled to partner with CASA Mental Health to bring this innovative and evidence-based program to our school division. The CASA Classroom will provide a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for students who need extra help to manage their mental health challenges and achieve their academic and personal goals. It will also offer valuable resources and guidance for their families and caregivers, as well as our staff and community."
The CASA classroom in High River will operate for the entire school year, with the same calendar as other FSD schools.
Alberta's government is providing over $197 million over three years to CASA Mental Health to support CASA Mental Health Classrooms, CASA Houses, and specialty services.