NDCPD contract to train middle school staff to combat suicides
The North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities, a Center of Excellence at Minot State University, has been awarded a contract from the N.D. Department of Health, Suicide Prevention Division, to implement a statewide middle school personnel training program.
This training meets new North Dakota requirements for mandatory professional development relating to youth suicide-risk indicators, appropriate staff responses and referral resources for teachers and administrators.
"The 2011 North Dakota Middle School Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 19.2 percent of middle school youth seriously thought about killing themselves and 5 percent did try to kill themselves," said Christine Brigden, project coordinator. "These survey results support the importance of this training. An investment of one hour in training may help save so many young lives."
NDCPD will utilize "Kognito - At Risk," an avatar-based computer program, to prepare middle school educators to recognize the common indicators of psychological distress and approach an at-risk student for referral to the appropriate school support service. The online training is free to personnel who work with middle school youth.
To enroll or ask questions, contact Brigden at christine.brigden@minotstateu.edu or 858-358
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 12/04/13 |
