Roselle Park students, advisors describe peer-run Crisis Center’s role in handling school emergencies

Good evening, Superintendent Goyce, Roselle Park Board of Education members and community: that was how Tiffany Bain introduced the Scribe/Crisis Center to the board at its public meeting, stressing the student-led origins and long service of the program.

The presentation explained that the Crisis Center began as a student initiative and opened in 1988. Co-advisor Tiffany Bain and Andrea Cazadoy, the high school social worker and co-advisor, told the board the center selects 14–16 rising juniors and seniors each year who complete a one-week summer training and a three-day fall retreat in active listening, mediation and risk-recognition. "The crisis center opened its doors in 1988," Bain said. Andrea Cazadoy added, "This year alone, the crisis center has handled 53 crisis situations." She also said the program has on at least one occasion resulted in a saved life.

Nut graf: The program provides a peer-to-peer option for students who may not initially seek adults during moments of stress or high risk. Board members and parents at the meeting heard students and advisors describe how the Scribe/Crisis Center acts as a bridge to adult staff and outside professionals when necessary.

Board members heard specifics about selection and training. Cazadoy described the application and interview process and the training elements: active listening, role-play to practice referrals, and recognition of high-risk behaviors such as substance misuse, bullying, dating violence and suicidal ideation. She told the board the team also fields routine concerns such as homework stress and friendship problems.

Several students described their experiences. Adea Harry, a senior and first-year Scribe staff member, said being in the role “has showed me how important it is for students to have a space where they feel safe to talk.” Student representative Yana Matelis said the retreat training taught patience and presence that helped her respond to high-risk situations. Multiple students present — juniors and seniors who were introduced by name during the presentation — noted the program’s impact on their confidence and communication skills.

Presenters said the center’s work extends beyond immediate interventions: former student participants later pursued careers in education, health and related fields and occasionally reconnect with the advisors to report how the experience influenced their careers.

Ending: Board President Doctor Kirkland thanked the students and advisors and invited them for a photo following the presentation. Multiple parents who spoke during public participation also expressed support for continuing and funding the Crisis Center as part of district services.