Kearney Public Schools Administration Office, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Kearney Public Schools (KPS) is proud to announce the Kearney Cares project, an innovative initiative aimed at strengthening our school community by providing essential mental and behavioral health services, along with engaging family activities. “This project fits with the district goal of having an environment conducive to student mental health and well-being,” states Dr. Dan Endorf, KPS Director of Safety and Security.
Funding and Objectives:
The KPS Kearney Cares project has been awarded a significant grant of $305,000 to support its operations for one year by Stronger Connections grant funds. This funding will be allocated to continue the Student Assistance Program (SAP) with $220,000 and to introduce a new School Social Worker position with $85,000 (inclusive of salary and benefits).
Student Assistance Program (SAP):
Launched in January 2023, SAP provides 24-hour online therapeutic services with licensed mental health professionals. As our current SAP services contract concludes in March 2024, the Kearney Cares project, supported by Stronger Connections grant funds, will ensure the continuation of this valuable service.
SAP offers students in grades 6-12 (with parental permission) access to online counseling or life coaching to address various challenges, including stress, anxiety, time management, grief, conflict resolution, and family issues. While SAP collects usage data, private student information remains confidential, and KPS only receives aggregate data on age, gender, and service nature. In cases where a student’s safety is at risk, SAP counselors are trained to contact local mental health services or law enforcement.
“The Student Assistance Program has the potential to become a valuable piece in helping our students find success,” states Endorf. “Eligible students can use the program at night, over the summer and during breaks from school when our excellent staff is off-contract. SAP can be used for everything from heightened anxiety needs to life-coaching, homework and relationship advice. We want our students to have access to mental health assistance until they can connect with a KPS staff member or community counselor.”
Bridge to Community-Based Therapists:
SAP acts as a critical bridge for students awaiting access to community-based therapists. Offering free services for students and families, SAP ensures immediate support for those facing mental health challenges. This interim solution allows for seamless coordination with the student’s primary therapist, guaranteeing continuous and comprehensive care.
New School Social Worker:
The Stronger Connections funds will also facilitate the hiring of an additional School Social Worker (SSW). This role is crucial in strengthening school-community connections, benefiting families, students, and KPS staff. Our team of 10 school social workers already plays a vital role in every school, particularly at the elementary level, where the demand for additional support is most pronounced. “Our social workers are an essential part of the school district,” stated Endorf. “They work with our students and their families daily to provide essential services.”
The Kearney Cares project is a significant stride towards nurturing a healthier, more resilient school community. Endorf states that KPS is dedicated to ensuring students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally within our schools and the Kearney community.