Decorah High School becoming more focused on mental health issues

Although counselors and staff in the Decorah Schools have always made themselves available and assisted students in need of mental health services, the effort is becoming much more intentional. Principal Kim Sheppard told the School Board Monday night that they had been working with a psychologist from the Decorah Clinic to help more clearly define  a model to implement programs of prevention and intervention, and aid in working/coordinating  with parents and local referral agencies for appropriate support.

Sheppard is hopeful the program can later include the Compassion Project, based on research that affirms compassionate and caring interactions as positive in student success and well being. Projects such as that could include students in broader outreach and educational programs that affirm a positive peer environment.

Superintendent Haluska is also beginning discussions with the other principals to develop more intentional mental health programming.