Consortium approves up to $4,000 to buy Teen Intervene books for Washoe schools

The Washoe County Children’s Mental Health Consortium on March 19 approved using available consortia funds to purchase Teen Intervene curriculum books for local schools after a request from Megan Evans of the Washoe County School District.

Evans described training roughly 22 staff in Teen Intervene and said the district’s Rotary Club grant covered training but not enough books. "The books are $717.90 per book including shipping," she said, and asked the consortium to consider buying several copies so trained staff can share materials across school sites.

Rebecca Arvin Feeney moved to use the Washoe County supports budget to buy books and Natalie Sanchez seconded. The motion authorized up to $4,000 to purchase as many books as possible before the fiscal year end; members voted in favor by voice vote.

Why it matters: The consortium’s approval aims to help schools roll out an evidence‑based brief intervention for students with substance misuse or related behavioral concerns. Members discussed buying about four to five books given the per‑unit price and the district’s training roster of approximately 20–22 staff.

Clarifying details: The transcript records a per‑book price of $717.90 (including shipping) and members discussed purchasing five books in the near term; the motion authorized an amount of up to $4,000 to be used from an approved budget line for Washoe County behavioral health supports.

Next steps: Staff will coordinate purchase logistics with the district and process invoices so funds are spent before the fiscal year deadline.