The Cherry Creek School District is taking significant strides in enhancing mental health services for its students, as highlighted during the Board of Education meeting on April 14, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the district's comprehensive approach to mental health, which encompasses prevention services, direct interventions, and safety measures.

The district's mental health team, comprising around 200 professionals, is dedicated to supporting nearly 4,000 students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) who have mental health needs. This team is also involved in crisis prevention and safety initiatives, which have become increasingly important in light of recent events, including the tragic shooting at East High School. In response, the district has developed over 2,000 safety plans to ensure a consistent approach to student safety across all schools.

Data plays a crucial role in shaping the district's mental health strategies. The introduction of a new data platform is expected to enhance the responsiveness of mental health services, allowing for better tracking of student needs and risks. Recent evaluations indicate a slight uptick in suicide risk among middle school students, underscoring the importance of ongoing mental health support.

The district has also forged valuable partnerships with community organizations, such as the Cherry Creek Schools Foundation and Servicio Salazar, which provide additional resources like art therapy. These collaborations aim to reduce barriers for students and families seeking mental health support.

In addition to these initiatives, the district has implemented programs like Hazel Health, which offers teletherapy services to students, and has secured grants to support social-emotional learning (SEL) in elementary schools. The district's commitment to addressing disproportionality in academic and behavioral outcomes was also emphasized, with ongoing efforts to ensure equitable support for all students.

As the district moves forward, it remains focused on continuous improvement in mental health services, with plans for further staff training and community engagement to enhance the overall well-being of its students. The proactive measures being taken reflect a strong commitment to fostering a safe and supportive educational environment for all learners.