Jefferson County Schools expands mental health services
BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBMA) The Jefferson County School District is expanding its mental health services to ensure all students are provided with social and emotional support.
"In order for our students to be successful in the classroom, we have to make sure their social and emotional needs are being met. There is no way around this issue other than to address it head-on,” said Scott Mohon, Director of Assessment, Accountability, and Student Support.
Within the last year, the district hired a mental health director to coordinate and expand mental health services. School district leaders also created the CARES team (Comprehensive Assistance Resources Education and Support).
The CARES team is made up of licensed clinical social workers who serve students throughout the district by going into classrooms and forming small groups for those dealing with mental issues like anxiety and depression.
Each school in the district has licensed therapists available for individual and group therapy . Case managers serve as liaisons between the school and and families.
The school district also connects families with community agencies such as the Crisis Center of Central Alabama to provide additional mental health support.
