School Counselors Address Mental Health with Suicide Prevention Strategy Update

The Eureka Union School District (EUSD) held its regular board meeting on May 5, 2025, focusing on student wellness and mental health initiatives. A team of school counselors presented an overview of their roles and the support systems in place for students, staff, and families across the district.

The counselors introduced themselves and outlined their responsibilities, emphasizing a multi-tiered approach to social-emotional learning (SEL). They explained that Tier 1 supports are available to all students, including classroom lessons and themed weeks such as Kindness Week and Mental Health Awareness Week. Tier 2 provides targeted interventions for students needing additional support, while Tier 3 offers intensive, individualized counseling for those facing significant challenges.

The counselors highlighted the importance of mental health awareness, noting that they engage students in discussions about emotional regulation and coping strategies from a young age. They also shared insights into the trends they have observed this year, including increased needs for emotional and academic support among students.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing updates to the district's suicide prevention policy. The counselors outlined their practices in staff development, intervention, and postvention, emphasizing the importance of training staff to recognize warning signs and provide appropriate support. They also discussed the use of the Aperture assessment tool, which helps identify students' social-emotional needs based on teacher observations.

The counselors expressed a commitment to enhancing their practices and resources, including plans for further staff training and improved communication with parents about mental health resources. They acknowledged the need for greater parental involvement and education regarding mental health trends and support strategies.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's ongoing efforts to prioritize student wellness and mental health, with a focus on creating a supportive environment for all students. The counselors' presentation highlighted the critical role they play in fostering a culture of awareness and support within the school community.