At the beginning of January, the Granby School District sent out a district-wide survey regarding adding a potential Security Resource Officer (SRO), a sworn law enforcement officer who works full time in the schools to enhance the safety of our students and staff. It is the hope of the district that the presence of a SRO at our schools will help not only in providing security in potential emergency circumstances, but also provide a resource for children who may need additional assistance or guidance from a trusted adult. Part of the success of a healthy and effective SRO program is in building relationships with students.
An SRO, properly planned for and utilized, will be an effective resource in making Granby schools a stable and effective learning environment. There will be further discussion regarding the SRO at the board of education meeting on Feb. 5, 7 p.m. at Town Hall—community engagement is welcome.
Of course, additional resources are necessary to provide for other supportive needs for our students. There is no question that there is increased demand for emotional and mental health support for students not only in Granby but throughout the country.
Granby schools consult with a medical advisor, Dr. Rob Parker, for assistance in managing the psychological and emotional challenges students are facing. Social workers and school psychologists are available in every school, and school counselors are available at the middle and high school levels to meet with students and consult with families about mental health and behavioral concerns.
Beyond what the school can do, home and community support is essential for kids. In materials that will be sent to family members in the future, Parker stresses the importance of finding ways to stay connected with children. Everyone’s days are busy, but nothing replaces spending time with your kids, even with shared activities like preparing meals, sharing a family dinner, or bonding over a shared movie or show. Spending time together can help engage in meaningful conversations and encourage open dialogue to help children feel safe in sharing their thoughts and emotions.
Parker also emphasizes that parents should watch for warning signs of mental health issues, including changes in mood, behavior, sleep, appetite or disinterest in usual activities. Parents should work to encourage positive coping strategies like exercise, art, reading or other activities that help manage stress and anxiety. As caregivers, having our own network of friends, family and other trusted individuals to rely on is essential and also helps provide children with additional guidance and support.
The support of families and community is paramount to making our schools safe. If you are concerned about your child’s mental health, there are several ways to seek support:
Connecticut Children’s Mental Health Services: Visit Connecticut Children’s Mental Health Services for valuable information, including blog posts such as How to Spot Mental Health Issues in Children and Coping Strategies for Parents and Caregivers. These resources provide practical advice on identifying concerns and supporting your child.
211: A free and confidential crisis helpline available 24/7 for mental health consultation/dispatching mobile crisis clinicians.
Urgent Crisis Centers: A convenient walk-in alternative to an emergency room, a UCC offers immediate assistance for children in psychiatric crisis. Located at the Village in Hartford.
911: If there is an immediate safety concern, do not hesitate to call 911.