Weddington High School has started a new project called the Behavioral Health Program to start off the 2023-2024 year. This program is one that was created to promote healthy development of social, emotional, and/or behavioral functioning. It was also made to prevent problems with social, emotional and/or behavioral functioning.
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) states, “This service is designed to ensure participating K-12 school staff have the support, materials, and knowledge to be able to help their students who may be dealing with mental and behavioral health concerns.”
The idea for this program was created and put into action in the winter and spring of 2022-2023. About 130 public schools in North Carolina have received mental and behavioral training and consultation through the North Carolina Psychiatry Access Line (NC-PAL).
Weddington Counselor Mrs. Washington said, “Its run through Novant and they find students who need extensive therapy with helping with specific behaviors… it’s more intensive…they make referrals to the behavioral institutions.”
The Behavioral Health and Staff Program was made to ensure the students get the help they need without having to go to outside sources. This program also helps the staff look at the students and see what their true intentions are and if they should step in and help them.
“I think it’s huge, I think they’re the bridge that helps us with the students’ family and staff. We are very limited as school counselors. and they are a huge support system for us. They are trained and it is a familiar face that they can connect with.” Mrs. Washington explains..
