Mental Health Pilot Program Shows Signs of Success

(Sedgwick County, Kan.) – A promising pilot program serving the mental health needs of USD 295 students and improving attendance and academic outcomes is expanding to 24 from 22 schools.

Approved last year by the Kansas Legislature, the Mental Health Intervention Pilot Program is a partnership involving the Wichita Public School District and COMCARE of Sedgwick County, which places staff at the 24 schools.

“As a former educator, I understand the importance of this program and the need for resources in our schools,” said Commission Chairman David Dennis. “I look forward to seeing this great partnership expand into additional schools.”

By the end of the 2019 school year, more than 700 students were served through the program. Results included students’ grades increasing by 50 percent, teachers reporting positive behavior increasing by 70 percent, and attendance increasing by 67 percent.

“This program has proven to be a needed resource in our school system,” said Joan Tammany, Executive Director of COMCARE. “The coordinated effort between USD 259 and COMCARE has allowed us to provide services to students faster and has helped students and families normalize the need for mental health resources. In addition, many students receiving services through this collaboration may otherwise never have sought out or received these services on their own. Intervening early can and does improve lives.”

The program is at five special day schools (Bryant, Greiffenstein, Wells, Sowers and Gateway), five elementary (Allen, Cessna, Dodge, Gardiner, Gammon, Isley, OK, and Stanley), six middle (Hamilton, Jardine, Marshall, Mead, Stucky and Truesdell), and six high schools (Heights, North, South, Southeast and West). The two new schools are Gammon and Stanley.

For questions about the available options for children, youth, and families, contact COMCARE at www.sedgwickcounty.org/comcare/ or by calling the children's intake line at 316-660-9605. COMCARE's Community Crisis Center is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week by calling 316-660-7500 for more immediate needs.