In The News: Schools, town will support families over break

Written by: Seth Gordon, Newberg Graphic

Effort includes meal program at Edwards Elementary, mental health support, calendar of activities and more

Following the suicide of a Newberg High School student during Thanksgiving break in 2016, the school district scrambled to find ways to support students over the ensuing winter break, especially by keeping them connected to each other and to needed resources.

It was a collaborative effort that included the local faith community and various public agencies and set the tone for how the school district would approach youth suicide and mental health over the past year.

The district and partners like Providence Mental Health Group, Newberg Christian Church, George Fox University, Chehalem Park and Recreation District (CPRD) and Yamhill County Mental Health were therefore better prepared this time around and launched a comprehensive effort prior to the start of break Dec. 15.