By Shaun Penner

Schools

Area municipalities help support Community School Liaison Counsellors at PWPSD

Jan 14, 2021 | 5:30 AM

Area municipalities are adding to their support for the Peace Wapiti Public School Division’s Community School Liaison Counsellors.

The division issued a statement of appreciation Tuesday, announcing grants totalling $56,000 to help fund the positions for schools within the MD of Greenview and Birch Hills County.

The MD put forth $45,000 to be used at Ridgevalley School and Penson School in Grovedale, while Birch Hills County has contributed $11,000 for the services at Eaglesham School.

Assistant Superintendent of Inclusive Education at PWPSD Heather Putio explains the counsellors work to support students’ social and emotional well-being through collaboration with school staff, one-on-one counselling with students, and referrals to external community supports where needed.

“The goal of the program and the services they provide is prevention and promotion. So, prevention of mental illness and promotion of wellness,” explained Putio.

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“They’re in a position of building a connection with students and supporting students, staff, and families accessing additional resources if required. They also provide a service to our schools in the education of mental health and wellness.”

PWPSD is also provided support and funding from both the County of Grande Prairie and Saddle Hills County to offer such programming in the schools that fall within their municipal boundaries.

Putio says with mental health issues affecting students seemingly more than ever amid the ongoing pandemic, the support for the positions is very much appreciated.

She adds the counsellors can provide support to more than just students.

“Our Community School Liaison Counsellors (can) also offer support to staff, in the way of education, keeping connections, supporting them so they are better able to support the students in the classroom.”

Putio says the service has been offered since she joined the division seven years ago. With that, she has grown to be a major advocate and supporter of the program.

“We wouldn’t have that in the schools if it wasn’t with these partnerships,” said Putio. “It’s tremendous. I can’t emphasize enough the value that we receive from those positions.”