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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 10, 2024 |
Los Angeles (Sept 10, 2024) - The Los Angeles Unified School Board approved a resolution sponsored by Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson to acknowledge September as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month and was co-sponsored unanimously by all board members.
The resolution calls for an update on the distribution of mental health resources and materials within 120 days to better assess the disconnect between the resources and the students.
The adoption of the resolution calls for more support for survivors of suicide through greater resources such as mental health services and grief counseling for students, staff, and families.
“Suicide is preventable in our society,” said Board Vice President Scott M. Schmerelson. “I authored this resolution because our students and staff must know that, whatever challenges they may face, they are not alone. We are all here, and our moral responsibility is to assist one another during moments of sadness, depression, or pain. To our entire LAUSD community, we are here for you.”
“The growing crisis of mental health, depression and suicide is taking a profound toll on our youth nationwide,” said Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho. “Los Angeles Unified is committed to offering students an extensive number of resources to support them through feelings of isolation, sadness and loneliness.”
“I strongly support the Resolution from Board Member Schmerelson and Board Member Rivas to recognize September as Suicide Prevention Month,” said Board President Jackie Goldberg. “Young people have always been at a high risk for suicide and that threat has grown in recent years. Let’s provide as many resources as we can to help students struggling with their mental wellness.”
“I wholeheartedly support the recognition of September as Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month and commend the call for a report on mental health resource distribution,” said Board Member Dr. Rocío Rivas. “This resolution underscores the critical importance of mental health support for our students. By proactively addressing this issue and ensuring access to resources, we can foster a safe and supportive environment where every student feels seen, heard, and empowered.”
“During the month of September, and throughout the year, we hope that all members of the community will get involved in promoting suicide prevention and awareness,” said Board Member Dr. George J. McKenna III. “Putting mental illness and mental health in a more visible light will make a difference by raising awareness. Awareness and advocacy efforts for suicide prevention are vital to our students, families and community.”
“As we recognize the importance of suicide awareness and prevention, I want to make sure every student facing overwhelming sadness or depression knows that you are not alone,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin. “Things will get better, and there is always a trusted adult ready to listen and support you. Let this also serve as a reminder to all of us that we never know what struggles those around us are facing. A small act of kindness can make a world of difference."
“This Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month is an opportunity for our school district to leverage every adult on campus and throughout our system to support students’ mental health and intervene in times of crisis,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez. “Our schools must be safe and supportive places that address not just our students’ academic needs, but also their socioemotional well-being to help them achieve their full potential.”
“During Suicide Prevention Month, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing our students’ mental health every day of the year,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz-Franklin. “By spreading awareness and ensuring resources are available, we can let every student know they matter and are loved. It’s essential we continue to create safe spaces where students feel supported and know where to go for help.”
"I am proud of how Los Angeles Unified continues to lead the way regarding mental health awareness and support,” said Student Board Member Anely Cortez Lopez. “Suicide Prevention Month is a reminder that every conversation, every act of kindness, and every effort to create supportive environments can save a life. It’s our collective.”
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