In its ongoing focus on mental health and social emotional wellness, the Garden City Public Schools has partnered with Northwell Health to expedite and expand mental health supports for students and families. This collaboration provides access to the Behavioral Health Clinic in Mineola, mental health evaluations and referrals, coordination of staff professional development and parent/community workshops and resources.
A major benefit of the Behavioral Health Center is the fast turnaround in providing mental health services for urgent student cases. The center serves as an alternative treatment setting for those who need immediate or same-day intervention, but do not necessarily require the services of the emergency room. The center’s professionals are available to conduct evaluations, provide referrals for treatment, coordinate care and assist with transitional care.
The district’s Pupil Personnel Services department and Mental Health Committee have been preparing for the start of school and continue to assess needs and provide social emotional care.
“We are very excited to enter into this partnership with Northwell Health,” Director of Pupil Personnel Services Janine Villez said. “PPS is invested in continuing to assist our students and their families within Garden City. This is an important step in increasing awareness surrounding mental health issues and will afford us greater resources to ensure successful outcomes for all of our students.”
“Mental health is essential for all ages, and this partnership opens up access to many great resources that will help our students and families,” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kusum Sinha added. “Our mental health team has done a great job in addressing students’ needs and we are pleased to expand the availability of supports thanks to Northwell Health.”
—Submitted by Garden City Public Schools
