LPS Board Approves of Grant Application For Mental Health Education and Resources

LINCOLN–(KFOR Oct. 8)–Lincoln School Board members on Tuesday night approved of a grant application to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services Office of Health Disparities, who is offering grants up to $10,000 per applicant for programs that serve youth at risk and provide education and resources about mental health.

In the past, LPS has used federal grant funds to implement Hope Squads. Hope Squads is an evidence-based suicide prevention curriculum that uses peer support teams to help students learn about mental health and reduce the risk of suicide.  LPS officials say students nominate their peers to participate on the Hope Squad based on traits like being a good listener, concern for others and being easy to talk to. These students become the school’s Hope Squad – teaching and connecting with the entire student body to reduce stigma and change school culture.

Each secondary school requires an advisor to oversee the program.  The grant would help pay for 20 school sponsors, or one for each middle and high school, for their time to lead and coordinate Hope Squads using the curriculum.