Resources for School Staff (K-12) School staff are critical members of our local communities. They know our children’s hopes and dreams; their highs and lows. They are often the first people to notice when something isn’t right. Making sure school staff have the tools they need to create a positive school environment and respond to a young person in crisis is a priority. Kids’ Link Rhode Island Kids’ Link RI is a free, confidential phone line that connects parents, caregivers, and other people concerned about a child or adolescent to an expert who can help them access services for treatment and counseling. To refer a young person to Kids’ Link RI, call 1-855-543-5465. Rhode Island Prevention Resource Center (RIPRC) The Rhode Island Prevention Resource Center is dedicated to providing training, technical assistance, and capacity-building resources to Rhode Island substance misuse prevention providers and community partners. If you are a teacher in need of training please visit Trauma-Sensitive Schools – Overview (riprc.org) Rhode Island Student Assistance Services (RISAS) Rhode Island Student Assistance Services (RISAS) provides evidence-based programs in schools and communities to prevent substance misuse and promote mental health. Learn more about the middle and high schools that have student assistance counselors Participating Schools – Rhode Island Student Assistance Services (risas.org) Suicide Prevention Initiative (SPI) SPI is youth suicide prevention program that helps K-12 school staff connect elementary, middle, and high school students with mental health services. Getting involved in the program starts with training for teachers and staff to learn how to identify a student who may be in crisis. To learn about getting training at your school, contact Leigh A. Reposa at Lreposa@risas.org or 401-952-7260, program manager at Rhode Island Student Assistance Services (RISAS). Read the SPI Handbook for more information. Take Charge of Your Behavioral Health: A behavioral health guide for transition… A guide for young adults age 14-25 about getting ready to be in charge of their healthcare. The guide includes information about mental health and crisis services. You can find the Spanish version here.
