Berkeley County Schools Boost Mental Health Help for Students

Berkeley County Schools are stepping up their game to support students' mental health. They've got big plans to make sure kids get the help they need. The district has a multi-year plan called the Continuous Improvement Cycle, running from 2021 to 2026. This plan includes creating a new alternative school program called the Next Step Learning Center Trail Blazers. It's like a fresh start for the old Berkeley Alternative School, with a tier-level program for students. Here's how it works: students can earn points to move back to their regular school. The tiers are based on behavior. Tier one is nine weeks, tier two is 14 weeks, and tier three is 18 weeks. Students earn points for good behavior, attendance, grades, and community service. They need 100 points for tier one, 200 for tier two, and 300 for tier three. Points are earned daily, four at a time. The program is meant to be a stepping stone for students to succeed. It's not just about punishment; it's about giving kids a chance to turn things around. The program will start at the beginning of the next school year, with a new facility opening in January. This is all part of the district's big budget plan. But that's not all. The district is also expanding mental health services. They've got private mental health providers in most schools and trained social workers ready to help. Students dealing with bullying, anxiety, or just needing coping skills will have access to support. It's clear that Berkeley County Schools are serious about mental health. They're not just talking about it; they're putting plans into action. This is a big deal for students who need that extra support to thrive in school.