North Adams Public Schools -

For more information:
Emily Schiavoni
Family & Community Outreach Coordinator
eschiavoni@napsk12.org
(413) 412-1106

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

North Adams Public Schools has been awarded $100,000 to support access to behavioral and mental health services. 

The Healey-Driscoll administration awarded a total of $5,540,875 in grants to 60 school districts, educational collaboratives, and charter schools across Massachusetts. According to the Healey-Driscoll administration, the goal of the funding is “to improve student access to behavioral and mental health services and support. This funding can be used to create or expand comprehensive, integrated systems of student support and aims, through collaboration with families and educators, to build strong local school partnerships with community-based mental health agencies and/or providers. In addition, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) will be providing related professional development for school district staff.”

The Healey Driscoll administration elaborated: “This funding can help strengthen skills to recognize and respond to mental and behavioral health challenges, establish cross-system coordination to improve integration of behavioral and mental health supports, and ensure seamless transitions between schools and communities, and improve data systems to track efforts and impact. These grants also promote piloting universal mental health screening systems.”

"This grant is a testament to the dedication North Adams has shown in building a strong foundation of mental health support for our students and staff,” said Jessica Chittenden, Drury School Adjustment Counselor and Lead School Adjustment Counselor for the district. “For years, we have worked to create a system that prioritizes well-being, and with the support of the Healey-Driscoll administration, we can continue to expand our efforts. This funding allows us to implement new, updated interventions and increase mental health awareness, ensuring that every student has access to the resources they need to thrive. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our children." 

Stephanie Shoffstall, a School Adjustment Counselor at Brayton Elementary School shared: “The funding North Adams Public Schools secured from the Healey-Driscoll Administration represents a significant investment in the well-being of our young learners and will allow us to implement vital programs and resources tailored specifically to their needs. By fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, we aim to equip our students with essential coping skills and promote emotional resilience. This grant will allow us the ability to expand our mental health initiatives, train staff to better support students, and provide access to counseling services.  Brayton will undoubtedly benefit from the opportunities this grant will provide our students.  I am honored to be a part of making a meaningful impact in the lives of Brayton students to ensure they have the support they need to thrive both academically and emotionally.”

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