# data[].attributes.body
This toolkit serves as an overview and roadmap for developing a coordination of student support services in an elementary, middle, or high school setting

# data[].attributes.body
This fact sheet explains proposed updates to California’s youth suicide prevention policy to prioritize behavioral health professionals in school mental health crisis response and clarify when law enforcement should be involved.

# data[].attributes.body
PRISM California provides free online LGBTQ+ cultural competency training for certificated educators, helping schools create more inclusive, affirming, and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Upload users in bulk to Prism using an XLSX template. Validate and manage user data easily.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Family Acceptance Project ® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Welcome to the Family Acceptance Project®

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Family Acceptance Project ® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

# data[].attributes.headline
Immigrant & Refugee Children: Educator's Guide

# data[].attributes.subject
Immigrant & Refugee Children: Educator's Guide

# data[].attributes.body
A guide to help educators support immigrant and refugee students through safe, inclusive, and informed school practices.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Immigrant and Refugee Children: A Guide for Educators and School Support Staff

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This guide, created in partnership with United We Dream, CLASP, KIND, and the AFT, is intended for educators, school support staff, and service providers who teach, mentor, and help open doors of opportunity for immigrant students and their families.

# data[].attributes.body
This guide helps school-based health and wellness centers create safer, more affirming spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth through inclusive policies, staff training, welcoming environments, inclusive intake forms, and affirming language.

# data[].attributes.headline
Santa Clara Office of Education: Wellness Center Resources 

# data[].attributes.subject
Santa Clara Office of Education: Wellness Center Resources 

# data[].attributes.body
This resource offers practical tools, templates, and examples to help schools plan, implement, and strengthen wellness centers that support student mental health, well-being, and access to care.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
​​​Wellness Center Resources | Santa Clara County Office of Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
​​​​​Resources to support educators in their implementation of health and wellness supports and services at school.

# data[].attributes.headline
Contra Costa Independent Living Skills Program (ILSP)

# data[].attributes.subject
Contra Costa Independent Living Skills Program (ILSP)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Contra Costa Independent Living Skills Program | We deal in futures!

# data[].attributes.body
The Positivity Pledge makes mental health empowerment fun!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Home - Positivity Pledge: Erika’s Lighthouse

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Take the Positivity Pledge The Positivity Pledge: 31 Days To Put Some Good Into The World May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Take the pledge. The Positivity Pledge is a program of Erika’s Lighthouse Click below to commit to take the pledge and receive a downloadable calendar and other Positivity Pledge updates! Take the Pledge […]

# data[].attributes.headline
Momentous Institute: Guide to Prioritizing Mental Health For Families

# data[].attributes.subject
Momentous Institute: Guide to Prioritizing Mental Health For Families

# data[].attributes.body
Momentous Institute invites you to squeeze the day and explore simple, everyday ways to enhance your mental well-being, one mindful moment at a time.

# data[].attributes.body
The Toolkit recognizes that mental health has always existed in our cultures, communities, routines, and relationships.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
May is Mental Health Matters Month Archives - Take Action for Mental Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Mental Health Is Ours is a May Is Mental Health Month toolkit designed to help Californians take simple, meaningful steps to support their mental well-being. Based on lived experience and everyday rituals, this toolkit recognizes that mental health has always existed in our cultures, communities, routines, and relationships. Inside, you’ll find practical tools, reflection prompts, and accessible resources that support mental well-being before, during, and after challenging moments. Whether you’re looking for new ideas or rediscovering what already helps you feel grounded and supported, this toolkit offers approachable ways to care for yourself and each other.

# data[].attributes.headline
California Foster Youth Bill Of Rights Handbook 

# data[].attributes.subject
California Foster Youth Bill Of Rights Handbook 

# data[].attributes.body
This infographic provides a quick overview of California SB 224 and helps schools understand the importance of including mental health education in health instruction to support student awareness, prevention, and help-seeking.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
CA Health Education  SB 224 Infographic (1).pdf

# data[].attributes.headline
California Foster Youth Education Law Fact Sheets 

# data[].attributes.subject
California Foster Youth Education Law Fact Sheets 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
California Foster Youth Education Law Fact Sheets 2025 edition PDF

# data[].attributes.body
Interested in starting or strengthening a student-led Wellness Club at your school? Complete this form to connect with WISP for free training, resources, and ongoing support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Student Mental Health Clubs Registration

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Student Mental Health Clubs Registration

# data[].attributes.headline
Bring Change to Mind (BC2M) Middle & High School Program

# data[].attributes.subject
Bring Change to Mind (BC2M) Middle & High School Program

# data[].attributes.body
BC2M empowers middle and high school students to lead mental health clubs that reduce stigma and promote help-seeking. Schools receive free training, resources, funding opportunities, and ongoing support. Connect with NorCal Regional Manager Jessie Bucci to get started.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bring Change to Mind – Let’s Talk Mental Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
At Bring Change to Mind, our mission is to end the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness. We work with industry-leading scientists to make a real difference in the lives of teens and adults across the country.Click below to learn more about our organization.

# data[].attributes.body
Know Your Rights guidance that helps students, families, and schools understand legal protections during immigration-enforcement activity near schools.

Access this document in Spanish.

# data[].attributes.body
Use the attached link to explore the CA Foster Care Ombudsperson website. It will direct you to the Foster Youth Bill of Rights page.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You have the right to live in a safe, comfortable home where you are treated with respect and to have:

enough clothes and healthy food

clothing, grooming, and hygiene products that respect your culture and ethnicity

a private place to keep your things

a phone you can use to make private calls (unless a judge says you cannot)

a caregiver that has special training on trauma and ways to help you

You have the right to:

go/not go to religious services and activities of your choice

participate in cultural, racial, ethnic, personal enrichment, and social activities

fair and equal access to all available foster care services, placements, care, and benefits

No one can:

lock you in a room or a building (unless you are in a community treatment facility)

make you stay in juvenile hall because they can't find you a home

use law enforcement as a threat or retaliation

abuse you physically, sexually, emotionally, or exploit you for any reason

punish you by physically hurting you for any reason

look through your things unless they have a reasonable or legal reason

treat you unfairly because of your race, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, color, religion, sex,

sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, mental or physical disability, HIV status, or membership in a federally recognized Indian tribe

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You have the right to live in a safe, comfortable home where you are treated with respect and to have: enough clothes and healthy food clothing, grooming, and hygiene products that respect your culture and ethnicity a private place to keep your things a phone you can use to make

# data[].attributes.headline
July 8-Triple P Baby Parenting Seminar- Free

# data[].attributes.subject
July 8-Triple P Baby Parenting Seminar- Free

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Triple P Baby Parenting Seminar — Contra Costa County Library

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The program is designed to prepare expectant parents up to a year for a positive transition to parenthood and the first year with the baby by providing a range of strategies for baby behaviors, partner support, and coping skills. \nThis program is presented by Counseling Options and Parent Education (C.O.P.E.).Topics include: \nParenting strategies for developing a positive relationship with your infant \nLearn techniques for teaching your baby new skills and behaviors \nUnderstanding and strategies for infant crying and sleep patterns \nApproaches for taking care of your own mental and emotional health as a new parent \nLearn how a newborn may change your relationship with your co-parent

# data[].attributes.body
Provides immigrant and newcomer families with trusted resources, legal support, education, and community services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
To report Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) action, or if you or someone you know has been detained by ICE:

For rapid response and immigration legal services in Contra Costa County

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Stand Together Contra Costa: One County, One Community, United

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
CALL 1-925-900-5151 for rapid response and immigration legal services in Contra Costa County. Stand Together Contra Costa is a rapid response, legal services, and community education project to support safety and justice for immigrant families in Contra Costa County.

# data[].attributes.headline
Educator & Foster Youth Liaison Resource Guide for Understanding Youth In Foster Care

# data[].attributes.subject
Educator & Foster Youth Liaison Resource Guide for Understanding Youth In Foster Care

# data[].attributes.headline
Family Urgent Response System | 24/7 Support for Foster Youth and Caregivers

# data[].attributes.subject
Family Urgent Response System | 24/7 Support for Foster Youth and Caregivers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Family Urgent Response System | 24/7 Immediate Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Immediate, free support for foster youth and caregivers in California. 24/7 confidential help via call, text, email, or chat. Reach out anytime for guidance and resources.

# data[].attributes.body
Contra Costa Foster Friends provides critical and ongoing support to foster children and their caregivers in Contra Costa County.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
www.ccfosterfriends.org - Contra Costa Foster Friends

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
www.ccfosterfriends.org - Contra Costa Foster Friends

# data[].attributes.headline
A Home Within - Free Therapy for Foster Youth

# data[].attributes.subject
A Home Within - Free Therapy for Foster Youth

# data[].attributes.body
A Home Within offers free therapy for foster youth. There is no time limit. No age limit. No red tape. Youth choose their therapist and continue “for as long as it takes.”

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
For 30 years, we've connected individuals currently or previously in foster care with dedicated volunteer therapists, empowering both to thrive.

2024 is A Home Within's 30th Anniversary! Throughout the year we're celebrating the strength that comes from our extraordinary history, and enlisting our community in building the future.

If you're a therapist and can offer one free hour of therapy each week to an individual with experience in foster care, we invite you to join the A Home Within community! Volunteers gain access to ongoing virtual clinical consultation, continuing education, and a variety of individualized professional development opportunities.

It is one of the most rewarding experiences of my clinical career, and now, more than ever, the best antidote to helplessness in the face of social injustice I have found.
- A Home Within Volunteer

I am so thankful for this amazing program that has, and does, change my life. My therapist says what we don't treat we repeat, I'm not repeating any of these cycles.
- A Home Within Client

We provide open-ended, individual psychotherapy-free of charge-to current and former foster youth. If you've experienced foster care and are interested in receiving one free hour of therapy each week from an A Home Within-affiliated therapist, we encourage you to learn more about our network and services.

At a Glance

16,000 hours of free therapy provided each year.

Over 600,000 youth in foster care nationwide need access to mental healthcare.

Over 500 therapists in 20 chapters across 10 states.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For 30 years, we've connected individuals currently or previously in foster care with dedicated volunteer therapists, empowering both to thrive. 2024 is A Home Within's 30th Anniversary! Throughout the year we're celebrating the strength that comes from our extraordinary history, and enlisting our community in building the future.

# data[].attributes.body
Youth in foster care can receive free therapy. Click this link to sign up.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Airtable is a low-code platform for building collaborative apps. Customize your workflow, collaborate, and achieve ambitious outcomes. Get started for free.

# data[].attributes.headline
First 5 - Immigrant Resources for Families

# data[].attributes.subject
First 5 - Immigrant Resources for Families

# data[].attributes.body
Free resources for immigrant families with young children, including Know Your Rights materials, family preparedness guides, trusted legal resources, and local support services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
First 5 Contra Costa | Making the First 5 Years Count

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources for Families | First 5 Contra Costa

# data[].attributes.body
Confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States. 9-8-8 is available via call or text, and online chat.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content

We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 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.

988

¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!
Haga clic aquí para obtener información sobre cómo acceder a todos los servicios en español.

Conocer más

Stock photo by iStock.

The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. We're committed to improving crisis services and advancing suicide prevention by empowering individuals, advancing professional best practices, and building awareness.

About The Lifeline

Anyone could be struggling with suicide. Find more specific resources below.

I'm Struggling With Individuals with Neurodivergence

We understand that every struggle is different. Experience the stories of people like you, and how they overcame crisis to find hope and recovery.
read stories of hope & recovery

First, you'll hear an automated message featuring additional options while your call is routed to your local 988 Lifeline network crisis center.

We'll play you a little music while we connect you to a skilled, trained crisis worker.

A trained crisis worker at your local center will answer the phone.

This person will listen to you, understand how your problem is affecting you, provide support, and get you the help you need.

988 Lifeline Center calls are free and confidential, and we're available 24/7.

Show What Happens When You Call The Lifeline

Everyone Plays A Role In Suicide Prevention

Get in touch

Call the Lifeline

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 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. 988 ¡Los servicios de texto y chat de 988 Lifeline ya están disponibles en español!

# data[].attributes.body
The Youth Partner Program supports youth involved with Contra Costa County – Children & Family Services from ages 10-21.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
“The Contra Costa County Parent Partner Program is the result of a visionary partnership between Children and Family Services and the Child Abuse Prevention Council. This program was designed to enlist as staff parents (both mothers and fathers) who have experienced child removal, services and reuni

# data[].attributes.body
The Library Wellness offers education about mental health and community support services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore upcoming events at Contra Costa County Library.

# data[].attributes.body
Attendance Works offers a set of family-friendly handouts that explain how health and well-being affect school attendance and academic success.

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Health Guidance for Going to School 

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Health Guidance for Going to School 

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
East County Community Partnership QR Code 

# data[].attributes.headline
East County Community Partnership Padlet

# data[].attributes.subject
East County Community Partnership Padlet

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
East County Community Partnership QR Code (1)

# data[].attributes.body
Erika's Lighthouse offers free Empowerment Clubs for elementary, middle, and high schools. Schools receive training, funding opportunities, activities, and ongoing support to launch and sustain student-led mental health clubs. Connect with Empowerment Club Coordinator Derick Elkin to get started.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Start an Empowerment Club to encourage students to bust stigma around mental health and spread positivity in their school community,

# data[].attributes.body
Required by state law (AB2291), this short module helps teachers, school staff, and community members better understand bullying and how to respond.

# data[].attributes.body
NCHS empowers students to build supportive school communities through student-led mental health clubs. Schools receive free resources, training, funding, and support through the NAMI network. Explore their website and connect with the NAMI CA NCHS Team to get started.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Students face many challenges during their transition to high school and college. Academics, clubs, jobs, and new relationships can all be super exciting, but also great stressors if not properly managed.

# data[].attributes.headline
Common Sense Education: Teacher's Essential Guide to Cyberbullying Prevention

# data[].attributes.subject
Common Sense Education: Teacher's Essential Guide to Cyberbullying Prevention

# data[].attributes.body
This guide helps educators understand, prevent, and respond to cyberbullying by offering practical classroom strategies, conversation tools, and guidance for supporting students’ digital safety and well-being.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Teachers’ Essential Guide to Cyberbullying Prevention | Common Sense Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is cyberbullying? How common is it? And what can teachers do about it? Get advice and resources to support your students.

# data[].attributes.body
This California Department of Education guide helps schools understand, prevent, and respond to bullying, bias, and hate-motivated behavior through schoolwide strategies that promote student safety, belonging, and a positive campus climate.

# data[].attributes.body
Keenan’s School Safety Center provides school staff with free toolkits, documents, and awareness resources on abuse prevention, bullying prevention, campus safety, Title IX compliance, and supporting students in foster care.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Nearly 10% of students surveyed say they were sexually abused at school. In California, over the past 10 years, hundreds of millions of dollars has been spent to resolve these claims and losses. This is money taken directly out of the classroom. Keenan is proud to take a leadership position on this very sensitive and important issue. By providing access to free Best Practice and Training Resources, we hope to help schools create a safe learning environment for children to thrive and prosper.

"Children cannot get a quality education if they don't first feel safe at school."
- Arne Duncan, Former U.S. Secretary of Education.

Statistics show that 160,000 students per day do not attend school for fear of being bullied. 60% of middle school students say they have been bullied. 55.2% of LGBT students experience cyberbullying. The tools below are offered to help raise awareness, prevent bullying and educate staff on how to recognize and respond.

The U.S. Department of Education statistics report that there are approximately 15 homicides and 5 suicides on campus per year. Each time there is an active shooter situation on a campus is one time too many. This Campus Safety resource center includes tools on active shooter, weapons on campus and school violence.

Title IX and its implementing regulations prohibit discrimination on the basis of sex in the education programs and activities of recipients of federal funds. This includes discrimination based on a student's gender identity, including transgender status. The resources below will help you ensure you are in compliance with Title IX and creating an inclusive environment for all students.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Keenan is committed to protecting schools and colleges.

# data[].attributes.headline
StopBullying.Gov: Bullying & Youth with Disabilities and Special Health Needs

# data[].attributes.subject
StopBullying.Gov: Bullying & Youth with Disabilities and Special Health Needs

# data[].attributes.body
This resource helps families and school staff understand why youth with disabilities or special health needs may be at higher risk for bullying and offers strategies for creating safer, more supportive school environments.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Children with disabilities-such as physical, developmental, intellectual, emotional, and sensory disabilities-are at an increased risk of being bullied. Any number of factors- physical vulnerability, social skill challenges, or intolerant environments-may increase the risk. Research suggests that some children with disabilities may bully others as well.

Kids with special health needs, such as epilepsy or food allergies, also may be at higher risk of being bullied. Bullying can include making fun of kids because of their allergies or exposing them to the things they are allergic to. In these cases, bullying is not just serious, it can mean life or death.

Creating a Safe Environment for Youth with Disabilities

Special considerations are needed when addressing bullying in youth with disabilities. There are resources to help kids with disabilities who are bullied or who bully others. Youth with disabilities often have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or Section 504 plans that can be useful in crafting specialized approaches for preventing and responding to bullying. These plans can provide additional services that may be necessary. Additionally, civil rights laws protect students with disabilities against harassment.

Creating a Safe Environment for Youth with Special Health Needs

Youth with special health needs-such as diabetes requiring insulin regulation, food allergies, or youth with epilepsy- may require accommodations at school. In these cases they do not require an Individualized Education Program or Section 504 plan. However, schools can protect students with special health needs from bullying and related dangers. If a child with special health needs has a medical reaction, teachers should address the medical situation first before responding to the bullying. Educating kids and teachers about students' special health needs and the dangers associated with certain actions and exposures can help keep kids safe.

Federal Civil Rights Laws and Youth with Disabilities

When bullying is directed at a child because of his or her established disability and it creates a hostile environment at school, bullying behavior may cross the line and become "disability harassment." Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the school must address the harassment. Read more about federal civil rights laws.

Bullying Prevention for Children with Special Health Care Needs

Having special health care needs due to neurological, developmental, physical, and mental health conditions can add to the challenges children and young people face as they learn to navigate social situations in school and in life. While bullying and cyberbullying is an unfortunate reality for many young people, children with special healthcare needs are at greater risk for being targeted by their peers.

One reason children and young adults with special health care needs might be at higher risk for bullying is lack of peer support. Having friends who are respected by peers can prevent and protect against bullying. Ninety-five percent of 6- to 21-year-old students with disabilities were served in public schools in 2017. However, children with special health care needs may have difficulty getting around the school, trouble communicating and navigating social interactions, or may show signs of vulnerability and emotional distress. These challenges can make them be perceived as different, and increase their risk of aggression from peers.

Young people with special needs may benefit from, both individualized and class-wide approaches to address the specific effects of their condition and prevent them from becoming the target or perpetrator of bullying. Teachers, school staff, and other students need to understand the specific impairments of a child's health condition, so that they can develop strategies and supports to help them participate and succeed in class and with their peers.

Potential Perceived Differences

Children and youth with special needs are impacted by their conditions in a variety of ways. Every child is unique, and so are the ways that their health condition affects them. Some impairments, such as brain injuries or neurological conditions, can impact a child's understanding of social interactions and they may not even know when they are being bullied. Here are a few ways that disabilities may affect children:

Children and youth with cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or other neurological or physical conditions can struggle with physical coordination and speech.

Brain injuries can impair speech, movement, comprehension, and cognitive abilities or any combination of these. A child or youth with a brain injury may have trouble with body movements, or speaking in a way that others can understand. It could take them longer to understand what is being said or to respond.

Children and young people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Tourette's Syndrome may have difficulties with social interactions, sensitivities, impulsivity, and self-regulating their behavior or effectively communicating.

A child or young person who experiences anxiety or depression or who has a mental health condition may be withdrawn, quiet, fearful, anxious, or vulnerable. They may exhibit intense social awkwardness or have difficulty speaking.

Children who have epilepsy or behavioral disorders may exhibit erratic or unusual behavior that makes them stand out among their peers.

Supporting Special Needs and Preventing Bullying at School

Strategies to address student's special needs at school can also help to prevent bullying and have positive outcomes for all students, especially tactics that use a team approach, foster peer relationships, and help students develop empathy. Some strategies include:

Engaging students in developing high-interest activities in which everyone has a role to play in designing, executing or participating in the activity.

Providing general up-front information to peers about the kinds of support children with special needs require, and have adults facilitate peer support.

Creating a buddy system for children with special needs.

Involving students in adaptive strategies in the classroom so that they participate in assisting and understanding the needs of others.

Conducting team-based learning activities and rotate student groupings.

Implementing social-emotional learning activities.

Rewarding positive, helpful, inclusive behavior.

Peer Support Makes a Difference

Here are a few examples of innovative strategies used by schools to promote peer-to-peer learning, foster relationships, and prevent bullying:

One high school created a weekly lunch program where student's with and without special healthcare needs sat and ate lunch together. Several senior students led the group, and invited their friends to join. All kinds of students participated. The students got to know each other through question and answer periods and discussions over lunch. They discovered things they had in common and formed friendships. A group of them went to the prom together.

Youth at one school held a wheelchair soccer night. Students with special healthcare needs that used wheelchairs coached their peers in how to use and navigate the wheelchairs to play. The students helped another peer who used a wheelchair who was interested in photography by mounting a digital camera on her chair so she could be the game photographer.

Another school created a club rule that required clubs to rotate leadership responsibilities in club meetings so that every member had a chance to run the group. This allowed students with special health care needs to take on leadership roles.

Peer support is an important protective factor against bullying. By working together, teachers, parents and students can develop peer education, team-building, and leadership activities that foster friendships, build empathy, and prevent bullying to make schools safer and inclusive for all students, including children with special healthcare needs.

Additional Resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bullying and Youth with Disabilities and Special Health Needs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Kids with disabilities or with special health needs may be at higher risk of being bullied. Find strategies to help at StopBullying.gov.

# data[].attributes.body
CCCOE Suicide Prevention Policy provides guidance for preventing, identifying, and responding to suicide risk in school settings.

# data[].attributes.body
PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center provides K–12 students, families, and educators with bullying prevention resources, classroom tools, youth-friendly websites, and awareness campaigns that promote kindness, acceptance, inclusion, and safer school communities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The kit ($30, with resources for up to 30 individuals) is designed to encourage coming together for a common goal: to make stronger connections among community members to help create a healthier environment for all and prevent bullying.
Request a Kit
Beyond Sticks & Stones: How to Help Your Child Address Bullying

This 70-page comprehensive guide ($10) offers prevention strategies for children, and the information and practical tools parents and other adults need to take action to address and prevent bullying.
Order a Copy
Take the Pledge

Take the Pledge

Pledge to treat others with kindness and be more accepting and inclusive.

Kids Against Bullying website

Kids Against Bullying
website

Innovative, educational website for elementary school students to learn, engage in activities, and be inspired to advocate for self and others.

Teens Against Bullying website

Teens Against Bullying
website

A website created by and for middle and high school students, with ideas to address bullying, be heard, and lead change in an important social cause.

Questions Answered

Questions Answered

You asked, we answered! Response options include images, 60-second snapshot, longer articles, video and poll.

Students With Disabilities

Students With Disabilities

A comprehensive overview of addressing and preventing bullying and harassment of students with disabilities.

ALL IN

Free online, year round toolkit with a new classroom lesson each week! Create environments in which each student is INcluded, INvested and INvolved.

i was bullied in 8th grade and now i have a lot of kids sticking up for me. especially my friends i never told anybody but my friends did and i went to the police.
i will recomend you going to a teacher or councler or teacher.

david scot, 16, new york groton

I care because if others are getting bullied you can feel if you were how hard it would be. I've never bullied but I know how it feels if it was me and I have met people who bullied and it is just so wrong

allya, 12, newcastle

Hey! I'm from Spain and i was bullied when i was seven in school and at this sumer since one month ago...
Two of this persons was my ''best friends'' and hurted so much, maybe still hurting me even i know that i have to be strong.
indirects on twitter, leaving me alone, talking wrong to other abot me, callings...
Until  i say STOP, now i know i'm strong even i have to be alone, i know i can't, even hurts me. And i hope that the people who had or have bullying try to be strong :)

ivanelly, 16, Spain/Europe

I am So proud to have been apart of this entire project. Bringing people together for a greater cause is just something you can't forget. After seeing this website get so big,so fast. I can finally say that I was apart of something wayyy bigger than myself. I am just greatful it's reached this many people and become a tool for people.

Chelese, 16, MN

I've been bullied for several years. Infact I still am, and it's just not verbally, but also on the internet. Words DO hurt. I've been bullied for my size, they way I look, and just being diffrent. Pledgeing can make a diffrence even though it may not seem like it, but it does. Stand up for yourself. Understand that everyone is not gonna be your friend, so you don't need everyone to make your life happy.  Smile, cause your diffrent. and being diffrent is what makes a person a better person!

Katie, 13, Ky

I care about this because!
I have been through alot on my life , and I have being call weird , crazy , stupid .

And you need to be free , dont let no one , to destroy your self -esteem
you are gorgeous , free the way you are.

It's not your fault , But if you have being bullied
PLEASE FIND HELP.

we need to be against bullying
-x

v

Veronica Michelle, 17, Puerto Rico

Carmen's Corner

A series of six educational videos designed for young audiences. It features characters from PACER's Kids Against Bullying puppet program, highlights key concepts of bullying prevention, and promotes social-emotional learning. Educator guide and student worksheets accompany each video.
View the Latest Video
Become a Champion Against Bullying

Join the hundreds of nonprofits, schools, and community groups that collaborate directly with PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center by using and sharing our bullying prevention resources in their communities.
Submit your organization
Survey Monkey Contributes to NBPC

Sign up and you will receive surveys by e-mail from SurveyMonkey customers who need your opinion. For every survey you take, SurveyMonkey will donate 50 cents to PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center, plus you'll get a chance to win $100 in an instant win game.
Join Survey Monkey in supporting PACER's NBPC

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
unites, engages, and educates kids, teens, parents and communities nationwide to address bullying through creative, relevant, and interactive resources.

# data[].attributes.body
StopBullying.gov provides families, students, educators, and community partners with federal guidance, prevention strategies, cyberbullying information, and response tools to help identify, prevent, and address bullying safely and effectively.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Stop Bullying on the Spot

When adults respond quickly and consistently to bullying behavior they send the message that it is not acceptable. Research shows this can stop bullying behavior over time.

Parents, school staff, and other adults in the community can help kids prevent bullying by talking about it, building a safe school environment, and creating a community-wide bullying prevention strategy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
StopBullying.gov provides information from various government agencies on bullying, cyberbullying, prevention and response.

# data[].attributes.body
24/7 mobile mental health crisis support for individuals of all ages experiencing an acute emotional or behavioral health crisis.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
A3 Crisis Response - 24/7 | Contra Costa Health

# data[].attributes.body
Crisis intervention and suicide prevention services specifically for LGBTQ+ young people.

# data[].attributes.headline
Prevention Guides and Toolkits for Schools

# data[].attributes.subject
Prevention Guides and Toolkits for Schools

# data[].attributes.body
CCCOE provides guides, templates, and toolkits designed to help schools and districts build, strengthen, and implement suicide prevention and crisis intervention practices.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Contra Costa County Office of Education - Guides and Toolkits

# data[].attributes.headline
Classroom Curriculum on Youth Suicide Prevention

# data[].attributes.subject
Classroom Curriculum on Youth Suicide Prevention

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Classroom Curriculum on Youth Suicide Prevention

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Educating Students about Suicide Prevention Wisconsin law requires schools to educate students about suicide prevention using health curriculum. Working with health educators from around the state, DPI has created a model health class curriculum for middle and high school that meets all the requirements in state law. Using the links below, you can download these curricula as well as learn about additional reasons to educate students, how to educate them in a way that doesn’t raise risk factors, and ways to connect your classroom education to other activities in your school.

# data[].attributes.headline
California Department of Education: Youth Suicide Prevention Resources

# data[].attributes.subject
California Department of Education: Youth Suicide Prevention Resources

# data[].attributes.body
Suicide prevention resources designed to support schools, districts, and communities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Building a Network of Safety for School Communities Suicide Prevention Webinar Series
The Student Mental Health Policy's Suicide Prevention Committee is excited to announce the Building A Network of Safety for School Communities Suicide Prevention Webinar Series which will address topics within the spectrum of suicide prevention to help educators and school staff gain skills and resources for supporting students, at a distance. The webinars will be offered on the fourth Tuesday of every month from 10:00-11:30 a.m. except for holidays. Registration must be completed for each webinar

Please register for one of our upcoming free webinars and Facebook Live events: Suicide Prevention 101 for Parents: Recognizing Signs and What to Do. This free webinar will provide information about suicide prevention for parents, including warning signs for suicide, how to have a conversation with their child, actions to take if their child is having a suicidal thoughts, and resources. The webinar is provided in partnership between the California Department of Education, the Directing Change Program, and Teen Line. The webinar is offered in English, Spanish and Hmong.
Suicide Prevention 101 for Parents in English (PDF)
Prevención del Suicidio para Padres (PDF)
Cawm Kom Txhob Txo Txoj Sia 101 rau cov Niam Txiv (PDF)

Help for Students in Crisis
Resources for addressing mental health and wellness during school closures.

Parents, educators, mental health professionals, and legislators are making a concerted effort to address the critical need to prevent youth suicides in California.

Statewide Suicide Postvention Response Team
The Statewide Suicide Postvention Response Team (SSPRT) is a prong of the SMHPW's Suicide Prevention Committee. The SSPRT was formed to support districts in navigating the journey after a youth or staff suicide. The primary goal of the SSPRT is to offer support and guide a district affected by a suicide through this difficult and confusing period. The SSPRT will serve as a support with whom districts can talk about the process of postvention. The team will ensure affected local educational agencies (LEAs) receive accurate and timely information, resources to fill in gaps identified; assistance with messaging to staff, parents, students, and the media; and help them find ways to support staff, parents, and students. Our mission is to help LEAs build their capacity and connect them to their local resources, connect them to their COE, county behavioral health department, and community mental health and suicide prevention/postvention resources.

Assembly Bill 2246 (O'Donnell) addressed this issue by requiring LEAs to adopt suicide prevention policies before the beginning of the 2017-18 school year. Chaptered as California Education Code ( EC) Section 215, AB 2246 mandates that the Governing Board of any LEA that serves pupils in grades seven to twelve, inclusive, adopt a policy on pupil suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. The policy shall specifically address the needs of high-risk groups, include consideration of suicide awareness and prevention training for teachers, and ensure that a school employee acts only within the authorization and scope of the employee's credential or license.

While the mandate does not apply to private schools or schools with students below grade seven, we encourage private schools and schools with students below seventh grade to consider adopting a suicide prevention policy as a safety net for all of their students. This is particularly important since suicide is now the second leading cause of death for youth ages thirteen to eighteen and also is a leading cause of death among ten- to-twelve-year olds. Students in earlier grades also are known to consider, attempt, and die by suicide. Research demonstrates that ideation may start as early as pre-school (however, suicide deaths are very rare among children age nine years or younger).

The board policy must be developed in consultation with school and community stakeholders, school-employed mental health professionals, and suicide prevention experts. At a minimum, the board policy must address procedures relating to suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention.

To help LEAs develop their own model policies, the California Department of Education (CDE) has collaborated with mental health professionals, including the Student Mental Health Policy Workgroup, to provide a model. The model policy can be accessed at the link below:
Model Youth Suicide Prevention Policy (DOC)
To assist school districts with the concerns about youth suicide, the following resources and publications are available for dealing with suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention (sometimes referred to as "aftermath"). Some sites provide factual data and others contain programs. For more Web information, contact the coordinator for pupil services in your school district or county office of education. Counseling and student support specialists (school counselors, school psychologists, school social workers, and school nurses) and local mental health specialists should be consulted for individual student referrals.

Publications

Resources

Suicide Prevention Resources and Recommendations Letter
SSPI letter with recommendations and resources to support suicide prevention.

Last Reviewed: Friday, March 11, 2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Building a Network of Safety for School Communities Suicide Prevention Webinar Series The Student Mental Health Policy's Suicide Prevention Committee is excited to announce the Building A Network of Safety for School Communities Suicide Prevention Webinar Series which will address topics within the spectrum of suicide prevention to help educators and school staff gain skills and resources for supporting students, at a distance.

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Health Guidance for Going to School - Spanish

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Health Guidance for Going to School - Spanish

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Tips for Staying Healthy - English

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Tips for Staying Healthy - English

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Tips for Staying Healthy - Spanish

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Tips for Staying Healthy - Spanish

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: For districts, schools, community partners: Tips for Keeping Students Healthy

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: For districts, schools, community partners: Tips for Keeping Students Healthy

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Managing Chronic Health Issues at School - For Families (English) 

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Managing Chronic Health Issues at School - For Families (English) 

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Managing Chronic Health Issues at School - For Educators (English)

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Managing Chronic Health Issues at School - For Educators (English)

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works - When is sick too sick for school?

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works - When is sick too sick for school?

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works - When is Sick Too Sick For School? (Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese) 

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works - When is Sick Too Sick For School? (Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese) 

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works - Is Your Child Missing School Due to Anxiety? 

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works - Is Your Child Missing School Due to Anxiety? 

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works - Is Your Child Missing School Due to Anxiety? (Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese)

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works - Is Your Child Missing School Due to Anxiety? (Chinese, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese)

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: My Child's Attendance Success Plan 

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: My Child's Attendance Success Plan 

# data[].attributes.body
The Student Attendance Success Plan is designed to help parents track their children’s attendance and work with teachers to set appropriate goals. Each Student Attendance Success Plan includes a calendar for the current school year, and a Help Bank to encourage families to think about their back up plans for getting to school even when challenges come up. Educators should consider distributing this plan to families.

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Creating Backup Plans for Getting to School

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Creating Backup Plans for Getting to School

# data[].attributes.headline
Attendance Works: Creating Backup Plan for Getting to School - Spanish 

# data[].attributes.subject
Attendance Works: Creating Backup Plan for Getting to School - Spanish 

# data[].attributes.headline
Inside California Education: A Place for Students - Wellness Centers 

# data[].attributes.subject
Inside California Education: A Place for Students - Wellness Centers 

# data[].attributes.body
This video highlights how a school wellness center can give students a safe, calming space to take a mental health break, build connection, and access support during the school day.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Inside California Education: A Place for Students – Wellness Centers

# data[].attributes.headline
California Student Mental Health Implementation Guide

# data[].attributes.subject
California Student Mental Health Implementation Guide

# data[].attributes.body
This guide is intended to support local education agencies (LEAs) and county behavioral health departments (BHDs) as they partner to deliver comprehensive, high-quality school mental health services for California students.

# data[].attributes.headline
California School Based Health Alliance: Funding School-Based Health & Wellness Centers 

# data[].attributes.subject
California School Based Health Alliance: Funding School-Based Health & Wellness Centers 

# data[].attributes.body
This resource outlines funding strategies, partnerships, reimbursement options, and grant opportunities that can help schools plan, launch, and sustain school-based health and wellness centers.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Funding School-Based Health & Wellness Centers - California School-Based Health Alliance

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
School-based health centers and wellness centers (SBHC/WCs) are tailored to the unique needs of each school community. Their services, operations, and funding structures vary depending on the lead agency, available resources, and strength of school and community partnerships. There is no single or dedicated state funding stream for SBHC/WCs in California. Instead, these centers rely […]

# data[].attributes.headline
 California Model School Suicide Prevention Policy

# data[].attributes.subject
 California Model School Suicide Prevention Policy

# data[].attributes.body
An evidence-based framework schools and districts can use to develop or strengthen local suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention procedures.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
b’Model School District Policyon Suicide Prevention: Model Language, Commentary, and Resources afsp.org/ModelSchoolPolicy’

# data[].attributes.headline
San Diego County - Suicide Intervention Toolkit

# data[].attributes.subject
San Diego County - Suicide Intervention Toolkit

# data[].attributes.headline
San Diego County Suicide Prevention Guide

# data[].attributes.subject
San Diego County Suicide Prevention Guide

# data[].attributes.headline
CDC - Suicide Prevention Resource for Action

# data[].attributes.subject
CDC - Suicide Prevention Resource for Action

# data[].attributes.headline
Child Abuse Prevention Council - Nurturing Parent Program

# data[].attributes.subject
Child Abuse Prevention Council - Nurturing Parent Program

# data[].attributes.body
CAPC’s Nurturing Parenting Program offers free evidence-based parenting classes in English and Spanish that help families build positive parenting skills, strengthen communication, and connect to supportive community resources.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
CAPC offers free evidence-based parenting classes across Contra Costa County in English and in Spanish. Nurturing Parenting curriculum is designed to build nurturing parenting skills that break the inter-generational cycle of child maltreatment and dysfunction. As well, the program provides support

# data[].attributes.headline
Family Justice Center - Mentas Positivas, WINGS & Mind Power in Action

# data[].attributes.subject
Family Justice Center - Mentas Positivas, WINGS & Mind Power in Action

# data[].attributes.body
This resource connects individuals and families impacted by trauma or interpersonal violence to healing-centered supports, including counseling, case management, stress and depression support, yoga, and long-term empowerment programs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Family Justice Center - Home of the Contra Costa Family Justice Centers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Mentes Positivas A Spanish program for clients of the Family Justice Center who are seeking help dealing with stress and depression. WINGS Women Inspired to Grow and Succeed (WINGS) is a program that was formed to help women in the community receive long-term support and skills after experiencing interpersonal violence. Mind Power In Action Healing Yoga

# data[].attributes.body
The Surviving Parenthood Directory, developed by the Child Abuse Prevention Council (CAPC), is a comprehensive, user-friendly that connects parents and caregivers to local mental health services, family support programs, child development resources, housing assistance, crisis lines, and more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If children came with instructions, life would be a lot easier. However, they don't. Yet parents are expected to know how to deal with kids effectively through every stage of development. It's a difficult job but fortunately, help is available and much of it is free.

Surviving Parenthood is a comprehensive resource guide developed by CAPC to inform parents and caregivers of the many services and resources that are available to help children and families living in Contra Costa County.

In its 15 edition, the resource directory includes information about protective factors that help reduce child abuse and neglect.

Download a copy:

English: Surviving Parenthood Resource Directory. PDF

Spanish: Surviving Parenthood Resource Directory. PDF

To submit either updates or additions to the directory, please download, complete and forward the Surviving Parenthood 15th Edition Update form.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If children came with instructions, life would be a lot easier. However, they don't. Yet parents are expected to know how to deal with kids effectively through every stage of development. It's a difficult job but fortunately, help is available and much of it is free.

# data[].attributes.headline
Contra Costa Behavioral Health Access Line

# data[].attributes.subject
Contra Costa Behavioral Health Access Line

# data[].attributes.body
Start Here for Medi-Cal & County Mental Health Services

Call 1-888-678-7277 to access county mental health services for children and teens, including therapy, psychiatry, or crisis support. Interpreters available.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Behavioral Health Access Line | Contra Costa Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Services and Programs » Behavioral Health

# data[].attributes.headline
Contra Costa Crisis Center - 211 Database

# data[].attributes.subject
Contra Costa Crisis Center - 211 Database

# data[].attributes.body
One Call for Community Resources & Mental Health Referrals

Free, 24/7 help in over 150 languages. Dial 2-1-1 or text 'HOPE' to 20121 for live support and referrals to mental health providers, housing, food, and more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Review our Inclusion/Exclusion policy to verify if your organization is eligible for listing in our database and referrals from our call center.
To ensure that the needs of our community are met to the best of our ability, we have developed a criteria for the inclusion or exclusion of agencies and programs in our resource database. This criteria is uniformly applied and published so that partnering agencies and the public are aware of the scope and limitations of our database. For further information on our policy please click here.
If you have any questions regarding the inclusion process, please email our database manager at blancag@crisis-center.org or call (925) 939-1916 ext. 145.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
211 Database - Contra Costa Crisis Center

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Review our Inclusion/Exclusion policy to verify if your organization is eligible for listing in our database and referrals from our call center. To ensure that the needs of our community are met to the best of our ability, we have developed a criteria for the inclusion or exclusion of agencies and programs in our resource database.

# data[].attributes.body
Care Solace connects families to confidential mental health or substance use providers matched to their needs, insurance, and availability

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Care Solace | Calming the Chaos of Mental Health Care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Care Solace is the mental health care coordination service of choice for K-12 school districts, higher education institutions and municipalities.

# data[].attributes.body
Findhelp.org is a searchable resource directory that helps families and school staff locate free or reduced-cost local supports, including food, housing, health care, financial assistance, and other basic needs services.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Find free or reduced-cost resources like food, housing, financial assistance, health care, and more.
Help starts here.

34,622,305 people use it (and growing daily)

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, chat with them online via their website, or text HOME to 741741 (multiple languages available). If this is an emergency, call 911.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
findhelp.org by findhelp - Search and Connect to Social Care

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Search and connect to support. Find financial assistance, food pantries, medical care, and other free or reduced-cost help in your area, anywhere in the US.

# data[].attributes.headline
Safe Spaces: Foundations of Trauma-Informed Practice for Educational and Care Settings

# data[].attributes.subject
Safe Spaces: Foundations of Trauma-Informed Practice for Educational and Care Settings

# data[].attributes.body
A free, online trauma-informed training that helps school staff and other youth-serving professionals recognize and respond to trauma and stress while fostering safe, supportive environments that promote healing, resilience, and student well-being.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Anyone who works with children is invited to take the free, online professional learning. This includes early care providers, educators and school personnel, including school nurses, librarians, administrative support, school bus drivers and yard duty support. Each module is about two hours and is filled with case examples, videos, strategies and practices. Select the module(s) that best fit your professional needs:

NOTE: For Module 1 (ages 0-5), you will need to create a California Early Childhood Online (CECO) account here.

For all technical assistance, please call 1-800-770-6339 or e-mail ceco@wested.org.

Through participating in the online trauma-informed professional learning module, learners will be able to:

Describe foundational concepts related to trauma-informed practice, healing and resilience.

Develop awareness of the brain's response to stress, its impact on behavior and protective factors on mental and physical health and well-being.

Describe the essential role of positive relationships in protecting social, emotional, and mental well-being.

Recognize developmentally appropriate and culturally responsive trauma-informed and healing-centered supports.

The training is designed to engage the learner with case examples, strategies, videos and practices - each varied according to the developmental stage served.

Understanding your role in promoting resilience and healing

Understanding trauma-informed practice

Preventing ACEs

Promoting healing and resilience

Reflection and planning

Understanding how individuals experience stress and trauma

Parts of the brain and what they do

Behavior is a form of communication

Identifying activated stress responses

Responding to students/children who are stressed

Adult well-being

Case examples, reflection, and planning

Understanding the collective conditions for health and well-being

Collective relationships

Environments and routines

Community of care

Case examples, reflection, and planning

Understanding the role of systems in supporting health and well-being

Conditions that support well-being in care/education contexts

Strategies for supporting well-being in care/education contexts

Reflection and planning

Dr. Joshua Sparrow

Joshua Sparrow, M.D., DFAACAP, is executive director of the Brazelton Touchpoints Center (BTC) in the Division of Development of Medicine at Boston Children's Hospital, where he also holds an appointment in the Department of Psychiatry, and is an associate professor at Harvard Medical school, part time. Dr. Sparrow's care in the 1990s for children hospitalized for severe psychiatric disturbances, often associated with physical and sexual abuse, and for developmental delays aggravated by social and economic deprivation and injustice, prompted his interest in the social determinants of health, racial health inequities, trauma and historical trauma, and community-based prevention and health promotion. At BTC, Dr. Sparrow's work focuses on organizational learning and change, and aligning systems of care with community strengths and priorities. BTC provides professional, organizational and leadership development, community based participatory research, and developmental program evaluation for family-facing professionals in pediatrics, early childhood care and education, infant mental health, home visiting, child welfare, public libraries and children's museums. Dr. Sparrow began working with young children at age 13 and did so every summer through most of college. After graduating from college, he taught in preschools (2 year old and 4 year old classrooms) for a few years before deciding to go to medical school. www.brazeltontouchpoints.org.

Ms. Lindsey Fuller

Lindsey Fuller is an unapologetic and passionate advocate for scholars and marginalized communities. Prior to joining The Teaching Well where she leads as the Executive Director, she served as a 1 st and 6 th grade teacher, and elementary school administrator, and District Leader in the position of Regional Director of Student Services. In that role, she supported 11 Bay Area schools and led all non-academic initiatives, including mental health programming, behavioral supports, socio-emotional learning, and crisis management. Through her private practice, Fuller Freedom Consulting, as well as TTW she strives to sustain adults in our schools to ensure trauma-sensitive continuity of care. She is a trainer in Restorative Practices (IIRP) and is state certified as a Mediator (CCEJ). Lindsey is a native of the Oakland/Berkeley community, the child of two educators, and mother of two.

Dr. Pamela Cantor

Pamela Cantor, M.D. is a child and adolescent psychiatrist, author, and thought leader on human potential, the science of learning and development, and educational equity. In the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, she founded Turnaround for Children, which translates scientific insights into tools and services that help educators establish the conditions for all students to thrive. In two books published in 2021, Whole-Child Development, Learning and Thriving: A Dynamic Systems Approach and The Science of Learning and Development, Dr. Cantor crystallizes key scientific concepts about how human potential and learning unfold so that anyone seeking to open pathways for learning and opportunity for young people can do so. She is a featured contributor to Edutopia's How Learning Happens series which has been viewed more than 15 million times. Dr. Cantor is a governing partner of the Science of Learning and Development Alliance, a member of the Brookings Institution's Task Force on Next Generation Community Schools, and a Commissioner of the Learning 2025 Commission of the American Association of School Superintendents. She received an M.D. from Cornell University, a B.A. from Sarah Lawrence College, and was a Visiting Scholar at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

We want to get the word out on Safe Spaces and, if you do too, we've made it as simple as possible to do just that. The content included in this toolkit can be used to help CA-OSG promote the training and includes a promotional video, one-pager, presentation, social media, and content for your newsletter or website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Safe Spaces: Foundations of Trauma-Informed Practice for Educational and Care Settings | OSG

# data[].attributes.body
PRISM California provides free online LGBTQ+ cultural competency training for certificated educators, helping schools create more inclusive, affirming, and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Upload users in bulk to Prism using an XLSX template. Validate and manage user data easily.

# data[].attributes.body
A free training that helps school staff, caregivers, and other adults recognize signs of mental health and substance use challenges in youth ages 6–18, provide initial support, and connect them to appropriate care.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Student Safety and Well-Being
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Virtual Training

Sometimes, first aid isn't a bandage, or CPR, or the Heimlich or calling 911.
Sometimes, first aid is YOU!
A child or young person you know could be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. YMHFA teaches you skills to help them.
You are more likely to encounter a child or young person-friend, family member, student, neighbor, or member of the community-in an emotional or mental crisis than someone having a heart attack. Learning how to help them is critical.

Training Content

Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) teaches you how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance use disorders in youth. This training gives adults the skills they need to reach out and provide initial support to children and adolescents (ages 6-18) who may be developing a mental health or substance use problem and help connect them to the appropriate care.

Intended Audience

Anyone can take the YMHFA course, but it is ideally designed for adults who work with young people, ages 6-18: teachers, nurses, counselors, coaches, secretaries, campus monitors, yard supervisors, registrars, lunch staff, bus drivers, leaders of faith communities, law enforcement, parents, youth employers, and other caring citizens.
This training will be provided VIRTUALLY.
Participants will be required to complete 2 hours of self-paced instruction prior to the instructor-led learning.
Content from this training supports Local Control and Accountability Plan-Priority Area: Student Engagement and School Climate.
Space is limited to 30 participants per training. Multiple trainings can be delivered simultaneously. For more information or to schedule a training, please send a message to YMHFA@CDE.CA.GOV
Mental health professionals who wish to participate should know this course is basic and will give them common language to share with their colleagues.
This training is sponsored by the California Department of Education and is made possible through funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through the Project Advancing Wellness and Resilience in Education State Educational Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice's Stop School Violence Act Program. California's Project AWARE-SEA (Project Cal-Well) is a consortium of the CDE and three grantee LEAs: Humboldt County Office of Education and Del Norte Unified School District; Sacramento County Office of Education and Paradise Unified School District; and Stanislaus County Office of Education. Participant manuals generously donated by the local chapters of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and instructor stipends generously donated by Blue Shield of California.

Last Reviewed: Friday, March 11, 2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sometimes, first aid isn't a bandage, or CPR, or the Heimlich or calling 911. Sometimes, first aid is YOU! A child or young person you know could be experiencing a mental health challenge or crisis. YMHFA teaches you skills to help them.

# data[].attributes.body
Erika’s Lighthouse Family Engagement provides bilingual workbooks, workshops, and at-home tools that help families talk with children about mental health, promote well-being, and support students experiencing mental distress.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Erika’s Lighthouse provides FREE family engagement resources so families can be partners in their children’s mental health.

# data[].attributes.body
The Family Acceptance Project® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The Family Acceptance Project ® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Welcome to the Family Acceptance Project®

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Family Acceptance Project ® is a research, intervention, education and policy initiative to prevent health and mental health risks and to promote well-being for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer-identified (LGBTQ) children and youth, including suicide, homelessness, drug use and HIV - in the context of their families, cultures and faith communities.

# data[].attributes.body
The Jed Foundation’s For Families resource offers practical guidance to help caregivers support teens and young adults through life after high school, college transitions, independent living, and mental health challenges.

# data[].attributes.body
BrightLife Kids provides free, no-insurance-needed behavioral health coaching, secure chat, and parenting resources for California families with children ages 0–12 who need support with worries, big feelings, sleep, behavior, or social skills.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
BrightLife Kids - A CalHOPE Program by Brightline

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Free behavioral health coaching from experts for California families with kids up to age 12. Our confidential support helps with everyday challenges like tantrums, sleep issues, and social skills. Always 100% free.

# data[].attributes.body
Mental Health America’s parent resources offer guidance to help caregivers support children’s mental health, recognize signs of concern, start important conversations, and care for their own well-being while supporting their family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mental Health Resources for Parents | Mental Health America

# data[].attributes.headline
More Good Days Together - Planning Guide 

# data[].attributes.subject
More Good Days Together - Planning Guide 

# data[].attributes.body
Mental Health Month Planning Guide for ideas, resources, and communication tools to help you make the most of Mental Health Month.

# data[].attributes.body
Free, confidential 24/7 crisis support, peer support, advocacy, and mental health resources that help LGBTQ+ young people feel safe, supported, and connected to affirming care.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Trevor Project | For Young LGBTQ Lives

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Trevor Project provides 24/7 crisis support services to LGBTQ young people. Text, chat, or call anytime to reach a trained counselor. Free and confidential.

# data[].attributes.headline
Center for Human Development (CHD) LGBTQ+ Programs

# data[].attributes.subject
Center for Human Development (CHD) LGBTQ+ Programs

# data[].attributes.body
CHD's Lifelong Resilience programs create safe, affirming spaces where LGBTQIA+ youth and allies can build community, explore identity, develop leadership and coping skills, and strengthen resilience through supportive connections and engaging activities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Lifelong Resilience – Center for Human Development

# data[].attributes.body
PFLAG provides support, education, advocacy, and resources for LGBTQ+ people, families, caregivers, and allies to help create affirming, inclusive, and supportive communities.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We're so glad you found us! PFLAG is the nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our mission is to create a gender-inclusive world for all children and youth. To accomplish this, we help families, organizations, and institutions increase their understanding of gender and consider the implications that evolving views have for each of us.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our mission is to create a gender-inclusive world for all children and youth. To accomplish this, we help families, organizations, and institutions increase their understanding of gender and consider the implications that evolving views have for each of us.

# data[].attributes.body
Immigrants Rising provides undocumented students, families, educators, and allies with resources on higher education, career pathways, entrepreneurship, legal support, and mental health to help undocumented young people access opportunities and build a stronger future.

# data[].attributes.headline
Association of California School Administrators - Immigration Resources

# data[].attributes.subject
Association of California School Administrators - Immigration Resources

# data[].attributes.body
A collection of practical tools and guidance to help educators support immigrant students and families.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This guide contains resources for educators teaching about the immigrant experience and for educators seeking to better support immigrant students and families. They were compiled by Michael Tapia, a retired principal from Ventura USD.

# data[].attributes.body
A quick, practical introduction to evidence-based strategies that help reduce stress and promote student well-being.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Toolkit: Stress Busters for Community-Based Organizations - ACEs Aware

# data[].attributes.headline
Recognize, Respond, Connect (ACEs Aware)

# data[].attributes.subject
Recognize, Respond, Connect (ACEs Aware)

# data[].attributes.body
A free, 50-minute training that teaches school staff to recognize signs of student distress, respond with empathy, and connect students to appropriate support.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Recognize, Respond, Connect: Supporting the Behavioral Health of Our Students

# data[].attributes.body
A free, statewide training that helps adults build authentic connections with youth, especially those experiencing substance use or behavioral health challenges.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn how to build trust and talk with youth about drug use. We offer training for adult Californians who regularly interact with youth, so they can engage youth in conversations that foster wellbeing and inspire hope.

# data[].attributes.body
The toolkit offers comprehensive resources in a central location that you can download and share.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness.

# data[].attributes.body
Please review the attached link for more information.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Youth Ride Free - Summer Pilot Program - June +July 2026 -

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Youth Ride Free - Summer Pilot Program - June +July 2026 - Program made possible by funding from County Supervisor District 3, Diane Burgis, and County Supervisor District 5, Shanelle Scales-Preston. We’re excited

# data[].attributes.headline
Martinez Unified School District - Summer Meals

# data[].attributes.subject
Martinez Unified School District - Summer Meals

# data[].attributes.body
MUSD is offering summer meals at Las Juntas Elementary School (4105 Pacheco Blvd. Martinez, CA) from June 9th - July 8th.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
[IMAGE] - FREE & REDUCED MEAL APPLICATION LINK
Paying for your school meals is easy! Set up your account today.
My School Bucks Page
Your MUSD cafeteria staff is preparing nearly 3,000 FREE scratch-made meals per day! If you are interested in a part-time position while your student is in school, we are looking for subs. CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

_______________________________________________________
Contacts
Jeff Yao
Food Service Supervisor
jyao@martinez.k12.ca.us

Health and academic achievement go together like peanut butter and jelly!

It is our goal to provide each MUSD student with delicious healthy meals that are made from scratch in our kitchens. Our menus are custom-built and meet or exceed USDA National Guidelines.

Please view our EXCITING, APPETIZING, & HEALTHY menus - Breakfast & Lunch Menus.

While all meals served to students are currently free, we highly encourage families who believe they may qualify for free and reduced meals to apply for the program. By doing so, families can help our district qualify for various local, state and federal funding.

If your family chooses to apply, please complete a Free and Reduced Meal Price Application. Online submission of the forms is preferred. However, the forms can be printed and returned (completed) to any school office. You will be notified by mail of your child's status. All MUSD students will be offered free breakfast and lunch from our cafeterias.

Only complete one application per family. The information you give will be used to determine your child's eligibility for free or reduced-price meals. This information may also be used for other state or federally-funded school benefits.

Factors considered in the application process are household size and total household income. HOUSEHOLD SIZE is considered all persons, related or unrelated: Including parents, children, and grandparents who live in your home and share living expenses. The TOTAL HOUSEHOLD
INCOME is the income each household member received last month before taxes - this includes wages, social security, pension, unemployment, welfare, child support, alimony, and any other cash income.

Foster children are categorically eligible for free meal benefits. An application is not needed yet there does need to be documentation of status by a state or local entity familiar with the child's status. Foster children may be included in the household application as part of the household size.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Explore upcoming events at Contra Costa County Library.

# data[].attributes.body
C.O.P.E. will be hosting a week long day camp in Walnut Creek, CA.

# data[].attributes.body
Food programs and partner services that address basic needs and strengthen food security for individuals and families across Martinez, Walnut Creek, Antioch, Oakley and Pittsburg.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Dining Room Locations and Meal Services

LFCC Operated Dining Rooms are open to the public. We serve anyone that is in need of food.

When it comes to the weekend, we've got something special cooked up for our community! Come by our Martinez and Pittsburg dining rooms over the weekend for a hot, delicious, and nourishing meal that we've taken to another level. Our volunteers are proud to serve those in need in our community, and our weekend meals are extra special! The weekend meals are served 11:00am-12:45pm at our Pittsburg and Martinez locations. With the current to go meals, families are welcome to come and pick up meals for family members at home and also Caregivers are welcome to pick up meals for homebound seniors.

Our Dining Room Locations

" Get Directions

" Get Directions

" Get Directions

" Get Directions

Trinity Center
1888 Trinity Avenue
" Get Directions
Except for these Holidays:

New Year's Day

Martin Luther King Day

President's Day

Memorial Day

4th of July

Labor Day

Thanksgiving and the Friday after

Christmas Day

We also are closed for staff meetings which are posted in advance at each dining room.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dining room locations - Loaves and Fishes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Dining Room Locations and Meal Services LFCC Operated Dining Rooms are open to the public. We serve anyone that is in need of food. When it comes to the weekend, we've got something special cooked up for our community! Come by our Martinez and Pittsburg dining rooms over the weekend for a hot, delicious, and [...]

# data[].attributes.body
Teens ages 14-19 can pre-register today and work out for FREE June 1 – August 31.

# data[].attributes.body
EHSD Navigators are on site at the Concord Library every First and Third Mondays of the month from 10am-4pm. They can provide assistance with resource referrals, navigation and benefits application assistance.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
EHSD Our Families Navigators — Contra Costa County Library

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The EHSD 4 Our Families Navigators are on site at the Concord Library every First and Third Mondays of the month from 10am-4pm. They can provide assistance with resource referrals, navigation and benefits application assistance. Benefit assistance includes CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKS, General Assistance, and Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI). No need to make an appointment just drop in during these hours and our Family Navigator can assist you.nbsp;