District 124 is continuing its commitment to provide more effective social-emotional and behavioral health in schools. The DCLT team was created last school year as a result of a federal grant. This team is made up of district and building administrators and community partners. These partnerships include, The Center For Self-Actualization, Evergreen Park Library, K12 Systems Change Solutions, The Urban Barn at James J. Sexton Park, and SXU Birth to Three Program. The team meets bi-monthly to analyze data and trends, identify barriers, and intentionally integrate mental health and wellness supports across the district.  

 

These partnerships have brought much needed support and services to the students and families of Evergreen Park. Our partnership with the Center For Self Actualization had afforded D124 another year of therapists in each of our five schools. Identified through our multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), we continue to offer individual and group counseling to students throughout the school day. This service has provided a much needed layer of support to our students struggling with social emotional and behavioral needs. If you would like more information, please contact Rebecca Tyrrell, Director of Student Support Services at (708) 423-0950.  

 

Last school year, the Evergreen Park Library prioritized academic support and access for our students. With grant monies, they were able to offer an online tutoring program through BrainFuse and provide all Central Middle School student’s with library cards. In addition, the library hosted various parent programming opportunities.  With collaboration from the Center For Self Actualization, licensed therapists conducted parent workshops on various mental health topics. This school year, the library will focus on expanding the youth library with SEL books, parent programming opportunities, and access to library cards to all D124 students. Please visit Evergreenparklibrary.org for more information on resources and programs.  

 

New this school year is our partnership with ParentGuidance.org. ParentGuidance.org is a comprehensive solution for schools that helps create a productive culture around mental health by engaging a new ally in this escalating challenge: PARENTS. Its components include on-demand parent courses, informational resources, monthly mental health webinars, and 1:1 parent or staff coaching.    

Parent and staff coaching is NOW available to any D124 parent/guardian or staff member who is experiencing mental health challenges at home or school. Coaching is individualized support and resources, connecting parents with a coach and therapist to help navigate the ups and downs of the most difficult mental health challenges. This resource is FREE, ANONYMOUS, and CONFIDENTIAL. The goal is to reduce the stigma and provide the tools and tips for success at home and work. Click here to register for support from a coach and/or see the attached flyer for more information on Parent Coaching.