During a recent government meeting, educators and students from the Richland School District passionately advocated for the continuation of the Communities in Schools program, emphasizing its critical role in supporting students' mental health and well-being.

A teacher, recognized as the 2022 SD 12 Teacher of the Year, highlighted the profound impact of the program on both students and families, particularly in light of the stress and trauma many are currently facing. She underscored the necessity of community support in schools, stating that the challenges students encounter do not discriminate based on socioeconomic status, race, or family background. The teacher called for increased resources to ensure that school staff can adequately support students emotionally, alongside their educational needs.

Students also voiced their concerns, with one senior from Legacy High School, Blair Johnson, sharing a heartfelt testimony about the significant influence of Mr. Ramos, a community coordinator at the school. Johnson stressed that removing such advocates from schools, especially alternative ones, would be detrimental to students who rely on them for guidance and support. He described Mr. Ramos as a vital figure in his life, stating that without him, he would not have been able to navigate high school successfully.

Another speaker, Tanya Newland, a grandmother of a Legacy High School student, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining support systems within schools to foster a safe and nurturing environment for students.

The meeting underscored a growing consensus among educators, students, and families about the essential role of community coordinators in schools, particularly during challenging times. The call to preserve the Communities in Schools program reflects a broader recognition of the need for comprehensive support systems to address the mental health and emotional needs of students.