The Board of Education recognizes that depression and self-destruction are problems of increasing severity among children and adolescents. A student who suffers the psychological disability of depression cannot benefit fully from the educational program of the schools, and a student who has attempted self-destruction poses a danger both to himself/herself and to other students.

All school personnel should be alert to the student who exhibits signs of unusual depression or who threatens or attempts suicide. Any such signs or the report of such signs from another student or staff member should be taken with the utmost seriousness.

In accordance with Policy 8462, staff shall receive professional development training in the risk factors, warning signs, and resources regarding youth suicide awareness and prevention.

Additional professional development training in youth suicide risk assessment and intervention shall be provided to mental health employees, counselors, psychologists, and school nurses.

The Superintendent shall develop and implement administrative guidelines whereby members of the professional staff understand how to use an intervention procedure which includes the following:

Throughout any intervention, it is essential that Board policies and District guidelines regarding confidentiality be observed at all times.

A.C. 5101:2-34/35
767 F2d 651 (1985)