Polk launches manager‑led campaign to increase use of employee assistance program

Summary

District staff described a retooled Employee Assistance Program communications and manager‑training campaign that includes mandatory live staff meetings, a 10‑minute video, printed takeaways and QR stickers; the campaign emphasizes seven counseling sessions per issue and 24/7 access and aims to boost utilization.

Miss Rouse and the benefits team outlined a district campaign to increase Employee Assistance Program (EAP) utilization by equipping middle managers to lead staff conversations, distributing a short video, a one‑page '20 ways to use EAP' flyer and a QR code sticker to place on employee ID badges. The initiative required each school and supervisory group to hold a live meeting during January to review resources and demonstrate how to access benefits.

Rouse said managers were given a meeting guide and digital resources to facilitate conversations and referrals; staff reported early feedback that many employees were surprised by the breadth of services available, from counseling to financial and family planning resources. The campaign also highlighted seven counseling sessions per issue and 24/7 emotional‑wellbeing support.

Board members suggested permanent posters or ongoing visibility and thanked staff for the outreach. Staff said communications will continue through newsletters and internal channels.