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Richland students and staff mark growth in Teen Mental Health First Aid training
Summary
District presenters said nearly 2,300 students across Richland High, Hanford High, 3 Rivers Homelink and Rivers Edge High were certified in Teen Mental Health First Aid over three years; a student speaker described personal benefits and urged peers to ask for help.
District presenters and student guests highlighted the reach of Teen Mental Health First Aid programming in Richland schools and described its classroom and community effects.
Kirsten (speaker 8), a member of the school-based mental health team, and another presenter (speaker 9) said that Richland High School, Hanford High School, 3 Rivers Homelink and Rivers Edge High School have collectively certified nearly 2,300 students in the Teen Mental Health First Aid program over the past three years. The presenters said the training teaches students to recognize signs that a peer may be struggling, start supportive conversations and connect friends with trusted adults.
Student Miley Scott (speaker 10), identified as a Richland High sophomore, described how the program gave her courage, a better understanding of what others might be experiencing and the skills to support friends in crisis. She also said the training helped her recognize her own struggles and understand that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Why it matters: Board members and staff framed the program as part of broader efforts to support student mental-health awareness and to foster peer-to-peer support networks. The recognition included testimonials from classroom teachers (an excerpt from a Richland High language-arts teacher, Michelle Greenwood, was read) about increased student engagement and a stronger classroom community.
Follow-up: The board welcomed the student testimonials and indicated appreciation for staff who implemented the program; student guests were invited to speak briefly about their experiences.
