Students in Jackson County Public Schools will soon have access to more mental health resources thanks to a five-year grant from Project ACTIVATE. The federally funded program was created by the North Carolina Departments of Public Instruction and Health and Human Services to promote student wellbeing and address mental health problems before they occur. Jackson County Schools’ Director of Student Support Services Kelly Doppke said Jackson County was selected for the grant because of the progress the district has already made in improving access to mental health services.
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In the first year, the district will receive nearly $323,000 to pay for personnel including clinical health providers as well as training, travel, supplies and materials. Doppke emphasized that the grant does not replace existing funds. Instead, it provides a means to extend services beyond what is possible with the current staff.
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Superintendent Dr. Dana Ayers is pleased with the services already being provided by the district, but she is also looking forward to the expanded offerings made possible by the grant.
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The district hopes to have staff hired by November 30th and clinical support beginning no later than January 30th, 2022.
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