Riverview Gardens School District received a Project AWARE Grant (Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education) from SAMHSA to develop school-based mental health and substance use services.
The federally funded program, administered by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, aims to increase mental health awareness among students and staff while promoting early intervention and prevention efforts.
"Through this grant, the district benefits from support that helps create safe, inclusive environments where students feel seen, supported and empowered to succeed," said Deirdre Liddell, executive director of Student Support.
Adrianne Blakemore serves as the district's Project AWARE coordinator. Sequina Jones, the district's wellness liaison, focuses on mental health and wellness initiatives. The grant also supports four social-emotional intervention assistants who teach restorative practices.
The team partners with Fresh Start Community Coalition to offer a five-week family skills training course that includes dinners and focuses on improving parenting skills and family relationships.
The district received an additional $50,000 this fiscal year to send staff to a Mental Health Professional Development Conference and train certified Mindset Safety personnel.