The North Kansas City Schools Department of Student Services seeks to support student success in all areas. Student Services provides a variety of resources to students, parents, staff, and community members to encourage learning and development opportunities.

Pursuant to Missouri Senate Bill 638, Section 161.1050, the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has established the "Trauma-Informed Schools Initiative." Trauma-informed schools are schools that realize the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery, recognizes the signs and symptoms of trauma in students, teachers and staff respond by fully integrating knowledge about trauma into policies, procedures and practices; and seek to actively resist re-traumatization.

Missouri Trauma-Informed Schools website

988 Suicide & Crisis Line

We can all help prevent suicide. The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

Encourage Hope & Help: No one is alone; we are all in this together!

There are local and national resources available to you. No problem is too big or too small, and it's never too early to reach out for help. Asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do. 

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NKC Schools began a partnership with Hope Squad, a peer-based prevention program, during the 2021-2022 school year. 

Hope Squad Information

NKC Schools works diligently to prevent student suicide. This is an on-going process that includes education and awareness. The ultimate goal is to ensure a safe, supportive environment for all students, creating school environments that provide the help they need.

A districtwide protocol is followed when a student makes any statements threatening to harm themselves or others. All of our school sites have certified counselors, with 18 district social workers also  assigned to support our schools. High school students are instructed about the risks and screening of students through the "Signs of Suicide" program, and we partner closely with both Tri-County Mental Health Services - including an on-site clinician - and Synergy Services to provide mental health resources to our students. Additionally, many staff members have received training in Mental Health First Aid. We continue to partner with districts around the state, and agencies in the area, to provide a wide-reaching library of services to students and families.

Also, students have been encouraged to report any concerns (including peers threatening suicide) to a trusted adult at school and/or anonymously through Text-a-Tip.