Olathe Public Schools Commitment

  • The Olathe Public Schools is proud to join our community in a united effort to prevent suicide. In addition to daily support from our dedicated staff, we provide the following prevention and intervention services to our students.

    Staffing Supporting Suicide Prevention

    • School counselors: Each school building is staffed with dedicated counselors; five at each high school, two at each middle school, and at least one at each elementary school.
    • School psychologists and social workers: School psychologists and social workers are assigned to every school.
    • Additional staffing support: Several additional mental health professionals and 25 community-based contract therapists provide direct mental health services to students during the school day.
    • HELP Clinic: The year-round HELP Clinic offers free mental health services to students, staff and families, both after school and during the summer.
    • Crisis support: A mental health co-responder is assigned to our Safety Services team, assisting students, staff and families in crisis, providing additional mental health support in tough situations.
    • Staff training: All staff members are trained in Jason Flatt Act and mental health first aid is offered to all employees — enhancing every employee's capacity to respond effectively to mental health needs.

    Partnerships with Suicide Prevention Community Resources

    • Strategic partnerships with local hospitals: We have developed strategic partnerships with local mental health hospitals to allow for enhanced communication and collaboration when students transition to and from inpatient services.
    • Johnson County Mental Health: We continue our strong partnership with Johnson County Mental Health, including direct referrals for students in crisis.
    • Community partnerships: Our collaboration with local law enforcement partners and community organizations like the Johnson County National Alliance on Mental Health and Zero Reasons Why strengthens our collective efforts in suicide prevention.

    Programs and Screenings for Suicide Prevention

    • Suicidal ideation protocol: Our district has a formal protocol for screening and responding to suicidal ideation, ensuring early intervention and appropriate care.
    • Anonymous tip line: An anonymous tip line is available for students, staff, and community members to report concerns about themselves or others.
    • Voluntary screenings: We offer voluntary screenings for emotional wellness, including the MySaebrs/Saebrs screening for early intervention.
    • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): SEL programs are integrated into all grade levels to support students’ emotional well-being.
    • Signs of Suicide: All high schools participate in the Signs of Suicide program.
    • Sources of Strength: All middle schools and several high schools are involved in the Sources of Strength program, with plans to expand further.
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Our EAP offers 24/7 access to mental health support for all employees, among other resources. 

    The combination of dedicated staffing, strategic partnerships, and comprehensive programming aims to ensure that our students and staff have access to the resources and care they need.

Prevention Resources

Presentations